A new distribution of Caucasian wingnut (Pterocarya fraxinifolia (Poiret) Spach) in the Kahramanmaras region, Turkey.

ABSTRACT

Caucasian wingnut (Pterocarya fraxinifolia (Poiret) Spach) is a relict tree species having limited natural distribution in Turkey. In this study, a new distribution of this species in the Kahramanmaras region was explained. This distribution occurs in Onsenhopuru and Yavuzlar villages and Yesilyore town of Turkoglu district, at elevations between 600 and 640 m along Orcan stream, and continues about 4 km. In this area, Caucasian wingnut had about 100 trees. This distribution area of the species, quite important for biodiversity, should be protected and the existing individuals should be evaluated as a gene resource. Especially vegetative reproduction of the species should be started and the seedlings obtained should be used at the margins of lakes and streams, parks and large gardens, avenues, boulevards, and streets in the region.