Rediscovery of Nepeta koeieana (Lamiaceae): A Presumed Extinct Nepeta From Zagros Mountains, Iran

Abstract

Nepeta koeieana, an extremely rare and narrowly endemic species, has been rediscovered after 87 years in Kuhrang County, Chaharmahal, and Bakhtiari province. Species identification was conducted through an extensive review of taxonomic literature and comparison with similar species using herbarium specimens under a stereomicroscope. Colored photographs of the habitat and live plants, a table of comparisons, detailed morphological illustrations of closely allied species, and a geographical distribution map are provided. A revised morphological description based on fresh specimens, along with a discussion of the species' taxonomic position, is also included. Additionally, the typification of the species name is addressed. Field surveys evaluated population size, habitat, ecological interactions, and conservation status, and maps were created using Google Earth. The species is assessed as critically endangered (CR) based on its very small and restricted population size.