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Plant Science Today (PST)

Research Articles

Vol. 13 No. 3 (2026)

A new record of Astragalus boeticus L. (Fabaceae) from Iraq: Integrative taxonomic evidence and global distribution mapping

DOI
https://doi.org/10.14719/pst.15366
Submitted
2 May 2026
Published
29-08-2026 — Updated on 29-09-2026
Versions

Abstract

The field surveys of the genus Astragalus boeticus L. conducted in the Jabal Sinjar District (MJS), northern Iraq, during spring 2025 resulted in the first record of A. boeticus. in the Flora of Iraq. The study was based on the examination of 12 specimens and the identity of this species was confirmed through regional floristic treatments from neighbouring countries, alongside a critical revision of national herbaria and relevant literature. This study provides an advanced taxonomic assessment based on detailed morphological characterisation of vegetative and reproductive organs, supported by anatomical investigation of the stem, petiole and stomatal complex, together with field and microscopic documentation, as well as the use of light microscopy and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) to support the anatomical and micromorphological documentation. A comparative analysis with the morphologically similar species Astragalus hamosus L. is included to highlight the diagnostic differences. Global distribution data were used to place the species within its broader biogeographical context. Voucher specimens were deposited in the Iraqi National Herbarium (BAG) and the Anbar University Herbarium (AUH), supporting the validation of A. boeticus as a verified new record for the Flora of Iraq.

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