Preservation and ecology of a living relict shrub in South Caucasus as a eco-genetic heritage from Tertiary: Epigaea gaultherioides (Boiss. & Bal.) Takht.

Aim: Epigaea gaultherioides is an euxine element with a tertiary origin as a relict species facing threat of extinction. In this study, an attempt was made to explore the ecological characteristics by taking into consideration the soil-plant interactions of this taxon. Methodology: Soil and plant samples were collected and analysed using Kjeldahl, Spectrophotometer, Flame photometer and ICP-OES. Results: The findings showed that generally grows on sandy and / or clayey soils, of strong acidic nature, non-calcified, non-saline and high in organic matter. The plant samples collected from the study area were rich in iron, aluminium, zinc and nickel; but their percentage in the soils was low. Interpretation: The findings of this study will assist to better understand the ecological requirements of this relict taxon for its possible future successful conservation programs.