Distribution and Current Status of the Endangered Shrub Disanthus cercidifolius var. longipes

Disanthus cercidifolius var. longipes is an endangered shrub endemic to China. Ten natural populations were investigated over the whole distribution area in order to explore its population and resource status, and two ex situ conservation populations were also surveyed in 2009 and 2010. Habitat status of each population and its community characteristics were described in detail based on field investigation. The reasons why this species is endangered were also explored. Results demonstrated that geographic distribution ranges were limited to several parochial areas, resources were very indigent, and populations were highly isolated from each other. Special life history traits of the species (i.e. reproductive biology problems) may impact self-reproduction. Seeds spreading only by elasticity from crazing capsules, together with poor mutual exchange among populations due to geographic isolation, may restrict population self expansion. These difficulties impact its endangered status. External factors such as plant diseases, insect pests, natural disaster and artificial disturbance cannot be ignored. In-situ and ex-situ conservation combined with reintroduction are effective measures for the protection and scientific management of D. cercidifolius var. longipes.