# European_Red_List_2017_December

redListCategoryRationale:
This species is endemic to one single locality on Sardinia with an extent of occurrence (EOO) below 100 km² and an area of occupancy (AOO) of 1 km². The population has been decreasing for about 70% in the last ten years and the number of individuals declined from about 480. Major threats for this species are the urbanization of the coastal  areas for tourist and recreation aims, and changes in native species  dynamics. It is therefore classed as Critically Endangered.

range:
This species is endemic to Sardinia, Italy, where it is only present in one locality called Casa del Cio, north of San Pietro island (Pignatti et al. 2001).The EOO is less than 100 km² and the AOO is 1 km² calculated with a 1 x 1 km grid (Fenu et al. 2010).

population:
The population has been decreasing by about 70% in the last ten years. The number of individuals declined from about 480 to about 130 due to decreasing habitat quality (Fenu et al. 2010). All individuals are in one subpopulation. The population is affected by fluctuation in the number of individuals.

habitat:
It grows in coastal grassland and shrublands very close to the sea. The vegetation belongs to the Chritmo-Limonion and to the Cisto-Ericion (Fenu et al. 2010).

threats:
The major threats for this species are the urbanization of the coastal areas for tourist and recreation aims, and changes in native species dynamics. Due to the low number of individuals other threats are the low density, poor reproductive efforts and the restricted ecological range that affect the opportunity of the species to spread (Fenu et al. 2010).

conservationAction:
Astragalus maritimus is listed as priority species on Annex II of the Habitats Directive and under Appendix I of the Convention on the Conservation of European Wildlife and Natural Habitats (Bern Convention).The whole population is included in the Site of Community Importance "Isola di San Pietro” (ITB040027). The species is the subject of an INTERREG IIIB project #of the Center for Biodiversity Conservation of the University of Cagliari. Since 2004, the population trend is monitored (Bacchetta et al. 2008).About 55,000 seeds were stored in the Seed Bank of Sardinia (BG-SAR). Other seeds are stored in Soller (Spain), Catania and at the Millenium Seed Bank, Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew (UK).


range:
This species is endemic to Romania (ILDIS 2010).

conservationAction:
Astragalus peterfii is listed on Annex II of the Habitats Directive and under Appendix I of the Convention on the Conservation of European Wildlife and Natural Habitats (Bern Convention). It is listed as Endangered in the Carpathian List of Endangered Species (Witkowski et al. 2003).


redListCategoryRationale:
European regional assessment: Endangered (EN)EU 27 regional assessment: Endangered (EN)This species is only been found at one location in Greece, one in Bulgaria and one in Macedonia. The area of occupancy is estimated to be less than 500 km² and the species has gone extinct at a further locality in Bulgaria. There is a decline in the number of mature individuals in at least parts of its range and the populations are severely fragmented. Further research on the population size and surveys of potential habitats are needed. It is therefore precautionary listed as Endangered.

range:
This species is found Greece, Bulgaria and Macedonia and the Asian part of Turkey. In Greece is is only found in Agras lake, northcentral Greece (few kilometres west of Edessa). In Bulgaria there is one existing locality in the southwest close to the Greek border (Kula Village) and one extinct locality in the Thracian plane. There is only one locality in FYR Macedonia close to the Greek boarder. The area of occupancy is estimated to be less than 500 km².

population:
The populations of this species are very poorly known. The current population trend is unknown but the few European subpopulations are severely fragmented. In Bulgaria, there are less than 50 individuals and it was considered extinct until 2007. There are no young individuals in the population.

habitat:
This small shrub grows on dry stony grassland on sandy soils at fairly low elevations (approximately 100-500 m). In Greece it is found in the area of an artificial lake.

threats:
Collection by botanists were thought to be a factor that caused the extinctions at one locality in Bulgaria. A potential threat is posed by the of expansion of vineyards close by. Threats to the other sites are unknown.

conservationAction:
This species is listed under Appendix I of the Convention on the Conservation of European Wildlife and Natural Habitats (Bern Convention). In Greece, it is not protected. In Bulgaria, it is classed as Critically Endangered (CR) B2ac(i,ii,iii,v); D (Petrova and Vladimirov 2009) and is protected. It is found in a Natura 2000 site and a project for research and conservation measures is underway in Bulgaria.Among the conservation measures needed for this species are monitoring and estimation of the population size, surveys to find potential new populations, and collection of seeds for ex situ conservation. Protection of the plant in Greece might be necessary.


range:
This plant is found in Romania where it is endemic to the Ceahlau Mountains (Witkowski et al. 2003).

conservationAction:
Astragalus pseudopurpureus is listed under Appendix I of the Convention on the Conservation of European Wildlife and Natural Habitats (Bern Convention). It is listed as Endangered in the Carpathian List of Endangered Species (Witkowski et al. 2003).


redListCategoryRationale:
This plant is endemic to the Crimean Mountains where it is found in less than ten localities and has a restricted extent of occurrence  (EOO) of less than 5,000 km². The population size and trend are unknown and more research in this field is needed. Recreational activities lead to habitat degradation and the species is therefore assessed as Vulnerable.

range:
This plant is endemic to Crimea, Ukraine where it occurs in the mountain massifs Aja, Demerdji, Svidanije and Meganome in the Crimean Mountains. No more than ten localities are registered and the EOO of this species is less than 5,000 km².

population:
The subpopulation in northern vicinity of the Privitne village (Svidanie mountains massif) had 30,000 individuals at the beginning of the 1880s. Only some plants were found in 2002. Data about the other subpopulations is lacking.

habitat:
This perennial plant flowers from May-June. It grows in stone and rubble slopes and in the phrygana with thin plant cover at an altitude from 500 to 1,000 m. It is a member of plant communities of the Sedo-Scleranthea class.

threats:
A lack of suitable habitat, combined with degradation of its sites due to recreational activities, pose the main threat to this species.

conservationAction:
This species is listed under Appendix I of the Convention on the Conservation of European Wildlife and Natural Habitats (Bern Convention). It is listed in the Red Data Book of Ukraine (Diduch 2009) as Vulnerable and protected in the Mis-Aja and Uroczycheze Demerdzy zakazniks. More information on the size and trends of the population and the habitat trends is needed.


redListCategoryRationale:
This species is classed as Vulnerable as the area of occupancy (AOO) is believed to be smaller than 2,000 km², the population is severely fragmented as the remaining habitat, sandy soils in steppes, is declining. Especially due to agriculture subpopulations have been lost in the past.

range:
This plant is endemic to the eastern European plain and occurs in the Ukraine and in South European Russia.In Russia, it is found in the Wolgograd, Rostov and Penza regions. In the Ukraine, it is grows in the regions Lugansk, Doneck, Dnipropetrovsk, and Charkiv.There are three localities on the left bank of the Siverskij Donec river in Lugansk. In Doneck, it occurs near the confluence of the Derkul river and the Siverskij Donec river in the Staniczno-Luganckij district; it is found near the village Sczastja in Krjakivka in Slovjanoserbskij district; in the department Camjani Mogyly of the Ukrainian Steppe reserve. In the region of Dnipropetrovsk, there is a single locality near the village Velykomychajlivka, Pocrovskij district. It is very rare in the valley of the Oscol river in the Charkiv region.

population:
It is found in 20-30 sites of which eight are in the Ukraine. Astragalus tanaiticus us a rare species with a few individuals in each subpopulation. Overall, the population has a declining trend.

habitat:
Astragalus tanaiticus is a perennial Xerophyte, found on sandy soils and calcareous rocks on steppe slopes. It is a component of plant communities with rarefied grass cover of Festucetea vaginatae and Helianthemo-Thymetea classes.

threats:
Main threats are agriculture, grazing and change of plant communities on sandy soils as a natural process. The species has limited dispersal.

conservationAction:
This species is listed under Appendix I of the Convention on the Conservation of European Wildlife and Natural Habitats (Bern Convention).    Categorized as Endangered (EN) in Russia (Illarionova, Komarov Botanical Institute, June 2010). Species is under protection in Russia and included in regional red books.It is included in the Ukrainian Red Data Book as rare and protected in Ukrainian steppe reserves in the department Camjani Mogyly and in Lugansk.

useAndTrade:
It is a melliferous plant and used for ornamental purposes.


redListCategoryRationale:
Astragalus tremolsianus is listed as Critically Endangered due to its restricted distribution range. Its presence has been reported in one single location and there is continuing decline in the extent and quality of its habitat, which has been partially ploughed up.

range:
Astragalus tremolsianus is endemic to the Sierra de Gádor (Almería) in the south of Spain (Mota et al. 2004), where it can be found in one single location, with an area of occupancy of 1 km². The extent of occurrence is 0.016 km².

population:
Total population size has been estimated in 16,000 individuals. #

habitat:
This plant grows in valleys of loams within the associations Achilleo odoratae-Astragaletum tremolsiani. It appears along with Festuca hystrix, Dactylis juncinella, Cirsium gregarium, Potentilla cf. reuteri and Festuca cf. nevadensis.The population structure is dominated mainly by reproductive adults, so that populations are maintained. Very few seeds produce seedlings and low percentages of those survive. It is a hermaphrodite species of insect pollination usually by wasps (Mota et al. 2004).

threats:
Main threats are the degradation and conversion of its habitat, which has been ploughed up, and its restricted distribution, along with its low ecological plasticity. Livestock impact seems to be higher for other species than for this one (Mota et al. 2004).

conservationAction:
This species is listed on Annex II of the Habitat Directive and under Appendix I of the Convention on the Conservation of European Wildlife and Natural Habitats (Bern Convention). It is listed as Critically Endangered (CR) B1ab(iii)+2ab(iii) in the Spanish Red List 2008 (Moreno 2008).Higher parts of Sierra de Gádor are proposed SCI. A fence is established around the populations that are being monitored. Seeds are stored in the germplasm bank Banco de Germoplasma Vegetal Andaluz.Monitoring plans on fenced areas should be established, more plant material should be collected and research about its propagation should be developed (Mota et al. 2004).

redListAssessors:
Mota Poveda, J., Aguilera, A.M., Cueto, M., Jiménez Sánchez, M.L., Lozano, Á., Merlo, M., Pérez García, F.J., Posadas, L., Rodríguez-Tamayo, M., Sola, A.J. & Soria, P.


redListCategoryRationale:
Astragalus verrucosus is endemic to Sardinia, where it occurs at only one site with an extent of occurrence of 0.7 km² and  an area of occupancy of 4 km². The total number of individuals is around 220 and the population is believed to  be stable, but it is possible that it will decrease in a near future due  to natural vegetation dynamics and urbanization. The habitat quality is decreasing due to leisure and tourism activities and modification of cultivation practices. It is therefore assessed as Critically Endangered.

range:
Astragalus verrucosus is an endemic species from Sardinia, where it occurs in only one population in the Arbus municipality. It has an extent of occurrence of 0.7 km² and an area of occupancy of 4 km².

population:
A. verrucosus occurs in only one population of about 220 individuals. The population is believed to be stable, but it is possible that it will decrease in a near future due to natural vegetation dynamics and urbanization (Fenu et al. 2010). The habitat quality is decreasing.

habitat:
This plant is a termophilous species typical of coastal grassland. Other co-occuring species are Stipa bromoides (L.) Doerfl., Dactylis hispanica Roth and Brachypodium retusum (Pers.) Beauv. (Bacchetta et al. 2005).A. verrucosus occurs in the Habitats Directive listed habitat 6220 "Pseudo-steppe with grasses and annuals of the Thero-Brachypodietea" (Commission of the European Communities 2009).

threats:
Main threat is development of leisure and tourism in the locality called Torre dei Corsari. Modification of cultivation practices is also considered as a threat, along with changes in native species dynamics (Fenu et al. 2010). Also intrinsic factors like inbreeding depression and low reproductive effort are considered a threat for the species (Fenu et al. 2010).

conservationAction:
Astragalus verrucosus is listed as priority species on Annex II of the Habitats Directive and under Appendix I of the Convention on the Conservation of European Wildlife and Natural Habitats (Bern Convention).The population is included in a Site of Community Importance “Is Arenas S’Acqua e S’Ollastu” (ITB032229).The species is the subject of an INTERREG IIIB Project #of the Center for the Biodiversity Conservation (CCB) of the University of Cagliari. Since 2004 the population trend is monitored (Bacchetta et al. 2008).About 60.000 seeds were stored in the Seed Bank of Sardinia (BG-SAR). Other seeds are stored in Soller (Spain), Catania and at the Millenium Seed Bank, Royal Botanic Gardens of Kew (UK).


redListCategoryRationale:
European regional assessment: Data Deficient (DD)EU 27 regional assessment: Not Evaluated (NE)Astragalus wolgensis is present in Central and Eastern European Russia. The populations are numerous, but it is rare in parts of its range. The main threats are overgrazing and grassland fires. There is no information on the extent of occurrence, area of occupancy, number of locations, or population trend and the species is therefore classed as Data Deficient for the moment. It is likely to be Near Threatened in Russia.It does not occur within the EU 27.

range:
This species is present in Central and Eastern European Russia in Bashkortostan, Chelyabinsk, Samara, Orenburg, Penza, Perm, Saratov, Tatarstan, Ulyanovsk, Volgograd regions. It extends its range into the Asian part of Russia and Kazakhstan.

population:
The populations are numerous, but in the Saratov region this species has been described as rare and probably extinct. The overall population trend is unknown.

habitat:
This species is found in mountain steppe, on limestone soil or lime rocks.

threats:
The main threats are overgrazing and grassland fires.

conservationAction:
Astragalus wolgensis is listed under Appendix I of the Convention on the Conservation of European Wildlife and Natural Habitats (Bern Convention). It is included in the Red Data Books of Saratov and Chelyabinsk regions as a Rare species and included in protected areas in Russia.


taxonomicNotes:
Cicer canariense&#A.Santos & G.P.Lewis (Santos Guerra and Lewis 1985) was sufficiently distinct to warrant the erection of the monospecific subgenus Stenophylloma A.Santos & G.P.Lewis, although van der Maesen et al. (2007) consider it a member of section Polycicer and as such it is a tertiary wild relative of cultivated chickpea.

redListCategoryRationale:
Cicer canariense is classed as Endangered due to its restricted and fragmented distribution and extreme fluctuations observed in its population size. The area of occupancy is less than 500 km². Predation by introduced herbivorous species limits the expansion of this taxon.

range:
This species is found in the islands of La Palma and Tenerife, the Canary Islands, Spain. In La Palma, it occurs in Caldera de Taburiente (Van der Maesen et al. 2007), distributed into at least 14 subpopulations. In Tenerife, it occurs in Barranco de Tamadaya (Gobierno de Canarias 2009) and in Barranco del Infierno (La Orotava) (Barone and Fariñas 2011). The area of occupancy (AOO) is less than 500 km².

population:
Total population size was reported to be 2,144 individuals in 2007 (Gobierno de Canarias 2009). The populations are severely fragmented with a high fluctuation in the number of mature individuals (Dirección General de Medio Natural y Política Forestal del MARM 2007).

habitat:
It grows in ravine beds and areas with moist soils. In La Palma at Caldera de Taburiente this species is found growing in alluvial soils in pine forests near Lomo de Las Chozas at 1,200 m asl (Van der Maesen et al. 2007).

threats:
The main threat is posed by herbivores such as rabbits, goats, sheep, and the game species Ovis musimon and Ammotragus lervia (J. Reyes-Betancort pers. comm. 2011, Dirección General de Medio Natural y Política Forestal del MARM 2007).

conservationAction:
This species is listed under Appendix I of the Convention on the Conservation of European Wildlife and Natural Habitats (Bern Convention). It is listed as species "vulnerable" in the national catalogue of threatened species of Spain and as species "de interés para los ecosistemas canarios" in the catalogue of protected species of the Canary Islands. It is listed as Endangered B2ac(iv) on the Spanish Red List (Moreno 2008). It occurs within several protected areas and is object of conservation action plans (Guma et al. 2010).No germplasm accessions of C. canariense are reported by EURISCO to be held in European genebanks (EURISCO Catalogue 2010), but seeds are stored in the germplasm banks of Jardín de Aclimatación de La Orotava (ICIA - ESP 117 -) and Escuela Técnica Superior de Ingenieros Agrónomos de Madrid. A review of the ex situ conservation status of this species is required and germplasm collection and duplicated ex situ storage should be carried out as necessary.

useAndTrade:
There is no known use of the species other than as a tertiary wild relative of chickpea.


taxonomicNotes:
Cicer graecum Orph. belongs to the family Fabaceae, subfamily Faboideae, and section Polycicer. It is a tertiary wild relative of the cultivated chick pea, C. arietinum (van der Maesen et al. 2007, USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010).

redListCategoryRationale:
Cicer graecum is classed as  Endangered due to its extent of occurrence (EOO) being less than 10 km2 and the area of occupancy (AOO) is about 6 km2. It is a rare species, found only in two locations and the quality of its habitat is decreasing, due to overgrazing. It is therefore considered as Endangered, though should be monitored closely as it is near classifying as CR.

range:
C. graecum is endemic to Greece, specifically above Trikkala, Mount Kyllene (van der Maesen 1972). The extent of occurrence (EOO) of this species is less than 10 km2.

population:
Cicer graecum is a very rare species in Europe, only found above Trikkala on Mt. Kyllene, where only about 1,000 individuals occur. It is believed that the population is decreasing.

habitat:
C. graecum generally grows on calcareous soils in hedges, corn fields and bushes. It is perennial, and its flowering period occurs between May and July (van der Maesen 1972).

threats:
The main threat to this species is overgrazing. Local fires might also have a negative impact. It is relatively tolerant to droughts.

conservationAction:
There are no accessions of C. graecum stored in genebanks (CIAT 2009, USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010), and the species is considered to be rare by the International Legume Database   Information Service (2010).&# Collections of all perennial Cicer species are so limited due to difficulties in growing species away from their adapted climatic conditions. Thus an in situ approach to conserving C. graecum would be recommended (Ahmad et al. 2005). A monitoring programme should be implemented.No germplasm accessions are reported by EURISCO to be held in European genebanks (EURISCO Catalogue 2010).

useAndTrade:
Wild Cicer species are currently the only source of resistance to bruchid (Callosobruchus chinesis) and cyst nematode. # So far C. graecum has not been recognised as a gene donor for these traits (Ahmad et al. 2005), but this is possibly due to a lack of research conducted on the species.&# It is also a potential gene donor to C. arietinum.


taxonomicNotes:
Cicer incisum (Willd.) K. Malý belongs to the family Fabaceae, subfamily Faboideae, and section Chamaecicer. It is a tertiary wild relative of the cultivated chick pea, C. arietinum (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010).

redListCategoryRationale:
European regional assessment: Least Concern (LC)EU 27 regional assessment: Least Concern (LC)This species is relatively widespread and the population seems to be stable. The species is considered as Least Concern.

range:
C. incisum is native only to Greece in Europe, but is also distributed across western Asia and the Caucasus (van der Maesen et al. 2007, USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010).

population:
According to the International Legume Database Information Service (2010), C. incisum is rare in the wild. Its population is considered stable.

habitat:
C. incisum grows on calcareous and igneous soils and rocks, among sub-alpine vegetation and rubble slopes. It is a perennial species, and its flowering time depends on its location, occurring between June and July in Greece (van der Maesen 1972).

threats:
There is no major threats to this species. Herbicides could become a threat if their use become more widespread.

conservationAction:
Only one accession of C. incisum is held ex situ at a genebank at the Regional Plant Introduction Station, Washington, USA (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010) and one at the Greek genebank. This species is annual and relatively easy to cultivate, thus an in situ approach to conserving C. incisum would be recommended (Ahmad et al. 2005).No germplasm accessions are reported by EURISCO to be held in European genebanks (EURISCO Catalogue 2010).

useAndTrade:
Wild Cicer species are currently the only source of resistance to bruchid (Callosobruchus chinesis) and cyst nematode. So far C. incisum has not been recognised as a gene donor for these traits (Ahmad et al. 2005), but this is possibly due to a lack of research conducted on the species. It is, however, a potential gene donor for C. arietinum.


taxonomicNotes:
Cicer montbretii Jaub. & Spach belongs to the family Fabaceae,  subfamily Faboideae, and section Polycicer (van der Maesen et al. 2007). It is a tertiary wild relative of the cultivated chick pea, C. arietinum (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010).

redListCategoryRationale:
European regional assessment: Least Concern (LC)EU 27 regional assessment: Least Concern (LC)This species is relatively widespread and its population is stable, even though it is rare. The threats it is facing are not impacting it over its whole range. Its is therefore considered as Least Concern.

range:
C. montbretii is found across southeastern Europe (southern Albania, southeast and Black Sea coast in Bulgaria, northern Greece) and western Turkey (both European and Asian parts) (ILDIS 2010, USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010).

population:
This species is very rare and its population is stable.

habitat:
C. montbretii grows near water, on hill slopes, among pine and oak forests, and in rocky areas consisting of calcareous or sandstone rocks. It is a perennial species, and it flowers between March and June (van der Maesen 1972).

threats:
Overgrazing is the main threat. As it is a mountainous plant, it is likely ot be impacted negatively in the future by climate change.

conservationAction:
There are seven accessions of C. montbretii held ex situ at the Regional Plant Introduction Station in Washington, USA (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010). # There is one accession in the Millennium seed bank and probably also in the Bulgarian genebank. Collections of all perennial Cicer species are so limited due to difficulties in growing species away from their adapted climatic conditions. Thus an in situ approach to conserving C. montbretii would be recommended (Ahmad et al. 2005).EURISCO reports only one germplasm accession held in European genebanks, none of which are reported to be of wild or weedy origin (EURISCO Catalogue 2010).  According to the International Legume Database & Information Service   (2010), C. montbretii is not a   threatened species. In Bulgaria it is on the list of the Protected Species. It occurs in protected areas.A monitoring programme should be implemented.

useAndTrade:
Wild Cicer species are currently the only source of resistance to bruchid (Callosobruchus chinesis) and cyst nematode. So far C. montbretii has not been recognised as a gene donor for these traits, but further research may be required. However, C. montbretii has been found to be resistant to ascochyta blight, and despite being distantly related to C. arietinum, could potentially act as a gene donor (Ahmad et al. 2005).

redListAssessors:
Uzundzhalieva, K., Economou, G. & Maxted, N.


redListCategoryRationale:
Cytisus aeolicus is native to  Sicily with an extent of occurrence (EOO) below 40 km² and an area of occupancy (AOO) of 7 km². Three subpopulations, severely fragmented, have been found with less  than 10,000 mature individuals in total. The area of occupancy and number of subpopulations are declining due to threats such as grazing, mowing, and natural fires. It is therefore listed as Critically Endangered.

range:
Cytisus aeolicus is native to Sicily, restricted to the Aeolian islands. It occurs at three locations with an area of occupancy of 7 km² and an extent of occurrence of 38.8 km².

population:
Three subpopulations, with isolated stands and therefore severely fragmented, have been found with less than 10,000 mature individuals in total. The population is declining.

habitat:
In the area of Stromboli, it grows in piroclastic deposits. Cytisus aeolicus can be found in scrublands and garrigues. It can also grow in disturbed agricultural soils   (Pignatti et al. 2001).  It can be found in the Habitats Directive listed habitat 9330 "Quercus suber forests" (Commission of the European Communities 2009).

threats:
The main threats are grazing, mowing, and natural fires.

conservationAction:
Cytisus aeolicus is listed as priority species on Annex II of the Habitats Directive and under Appendix I of the Convention on the Conservation of European Wildlife and Natural Habitats (Bern Convention).It is classed as Endangered in Italy (Pignatti et al. 2001) and included in protected areas. This plant is also subject to a LIFE project.


taxonomicNotes:
This plant is not a valid subspecies according to Castroviejo et al. (2000) and forms part of Dorycnium pentaphyllum Scop.

redListCategoryRationale:
Dorycnium pentaphyllum ssp. transmontana is not recognised as a valid subspecies by several authors. It is therefore assessed as Data Deficient for taxonomic reasons.

range:
Dorycnium pentaphyllum ssp. transmontana is native to northeast Portugal. Its extent of occurrence is between 3,555 and 5,000 km² and the area of occupancy is 1,600 km² (Commission of the European Communities 2009).

population:
There is no data on the population size or trend available.

habitat:
This subspecies occurs in road margins, edges of watercourses and glades. It is characteristic for Helichryso stoechadis-Santolinetalia squarrosae communities (Pegano-Salsoletea) (Commission of the European Communities 2009).

threats:
Modifying structures of water courses has been one of the threats described for this taxon (Commission of the European Communities 2009).

conservationAction:
Dorycnium pentaphyllum ssp. transmontana is listed on Annex V of the Habitats Directive. Information on the population size and trend is needed.


redListCategoryRationale:
Dorycnium spectabile is listed as Endangered because its area of occupancy is 2 km² and there are only two isolated populations. A continuing decline in the extent and quality of its habitat and in the number of mature individuals has been observed mainly due to trampling and anthropization, predation, collection, and droughts. In addition, the total population size is 386 individuals and the number of individuals in each subpopulation is less than 250.

range:
Dorycnium spectabile is endemic to the island of Tenerife, the Canary Islands, Spain (Mesa Coello et al. 2004), with presence confirmed in only two locations in the north (Barranco de los Cochinos) and southeast of the island (Barranco del Agua-Güímar). The area of occupancy is 2 km².

population:
Total population size has been reported to be 386 individuals (Mesa Coello et al. 2004). Most of the specimen are adult individuals. Approximately 50% of individuals are flowering and fruiting annually, producing an average of 1,100 flowers per individual, of which only 30% are fertile, resulting in approximately 15 seeds per fruit. Population trend is believed to be decreasing (Gobierno de Canarias 2004). Population reinforcement measures have been implemented but it is thought the survival of these individuals is still conditioned by human intervention.

habitat:
This species is associated primarily with shrublands on open areas in dry forests Rhamno-Hypericetum canariensis and Fayo-Ericetum arboreae (Mesa Coello et al. 2004). However, it is possible to observe some individuals taking advantage of clearings in the forest Visnea-Arbutetum canariensis. Frequent accompanying species are Erica arborea, Visnea mocanera, Arbutus canariensis, Apollonias barbujana ssp. tarbujana, Viburnum rigidum, Ilex canariensis, Heberdenia excelsa, Globularia salicina, Hypericum canariense and Jasminum odoratissimum.It is an entomophilous plant. Its main pollination vectors belong to Apidae and Hymenoptera. Seed predation by beetles (Bruchidius lichenicola) has been observed. The two populations currently known are geographically isolated, showing a considerable genetic difference.

threats:
Main threats to this species are trampling and anthropization, collection, natural competition, predation, parasitism and possible fires and landslides (Mesa Coello et al. 2004). In Barranco de los Cochinos, the low number of individuals and the low presence of reproductive specimens are also threats. In Barranco del Agua, possible droughts can affect the species.

conservationAction:
Dorycnium spectabile is listed as priority species on Annex II of the Habitats Directive and under Appendix I of the Convention on the Conservation of European Wildlife and Natural Habitats (Bern Convention). It is listed as species "En peligro de extinción" in the national catalogue of  threatened species and in the regional catalogue of protected species of the Canary Islands. It is classed as EN B2ab(iii,v); C2a(i) on the Spanish Red List (Moreno 2008). # It has been object of a LIFE project where genetic and demographic research about the species was developed and population reinforcement measures were implemented (Mesa Coello et al. 2004). Populations are included in the protected area Parque Rural de Teno (SCI) and Paisaje Protegido de las Siete Lomas. Seeds have been stored in the germplasm banks of Servicio de Biodiversidad de la Viceconsejería de Medio Ambiente, Jardín Botánico Viera y Clavijo and E.T.S. de Ingenieros Agrónomos de Madrid.Proposed measures include population monitoring and selective clearings. The access to the path present in Barranco de los Cochinos should be controlled.

redListAssessors:
Mesa Coello, R., Ojeda Land, E. & Rodríguez Núñez, S.


redListCategoryRationale:
Genista benehoavensis has been object of a recovery plan since 1988, when it was severely endangered, and its population has increased since. Regressive patterns in its habitat are being controlled through establishment of fences against herbivores, but degradation and predation occur as soon as the fencing is destroyed or predators manage to get in the fenced area. Although its total area of occupancy is 28 km², the species appears scattered and distributed into many small populations nuclei and the increasing population trends and current relatively wide distribution of the species could not occur without human intervention. Furthermore, due to the proximity of the scattered subpopulations, an impact on the distribution of the species, such as a fire, could destroy a huge amount of specimens. Therefore, the species is listed as Vulnerable.

range:
This plant is endemic to the island of La Palma, the Canary Islands, Spain, where it occurs in the north of the island (Carqué Álamo et al. 2004). It is present in eight municipalities, comprising several population nuclei: Santa Cruz de La Palma (Pico de La Nieve); Puntallana (Barranco Hondo); San Andrés y Sauces (Barranco de Vizcaíno, Lomo Morisco, Fuente Juan Diego, La  Mejorana y Rivero); Barlovento (northeast of Pico de la Cruz, Dormitorios Altos, Morro de la Cebolla, Barranco de Gallegos); Garafía (Barranco de Franceses, Los Andenes, foot of Pico Fuente Nueva, northeastern foot of Roque de los Muchachos, surroundings of Observatorio Astrofisico, Lomo de la Ciudad, Barrancos de Izcagua, Briesta, Dornajito and Las Grajas); Puntagorda (northern foor of Roque Chico, firewall Reventón, Llano de las Ánimas and Barranco de Garome); Tijarafe (Barranco de Garorme, western foot of Roque Palmero) and El Paso (Espigón Roque de los Muchachos, Barranco del Diablo) (Á. Palomares pers. comm. 2011). Its total area of occupancy is 28 km², comprising natural and introduced subpopulations.

population:
Its populations are relatively well structured. Proportion of young individuals exceeds 50%. In 1999, 363 individuals were recorded. Due to the establishment of fences and reinforcement measures, the population size experienced a rapid increase, and in 2004, 3,000 mature individuals were counted. In 2006-2007 a total population of more than 7,000 individuals is recorded. Reintroduction and protection measures seem to have lead to increasing population trends (Gobierno de Canarias 2009). Its population has been growing since the implementation of the recovery plan in 1988, due to reintroduction measures and through natural regeneration. Current population is 9,815 individuals, from which 5,639 are mature individuals (Á. Palomares pers. comm. 2011). The species presents a scattered distribution. It is frequently found distributed in small groups which do not comprise a viable population and the subpopulations counting more than 250 individuals are not common and are reintroduced: surroundings of Morro de la Cebolla, surroundings of Roque de los Muchachos, Parcela Quemada and Izcagua Dornajito.

habitat:
This large shrub is characteristic of the northern edges of La Caldera de Taburiente, appearing associated to high mountain communities Telino benehoavensis-Adenocarpetum spartioidis (Carqué Álamo et al. 2004). It prefers sunny sites, with low slope, within communities dominated by Adenocarpus viscosus var. spartioides. It can also be found in steep slopes, along with rupicolous species as #Tolpis calderae and Greenovia diplocycla. It is a hermaphrodite species. Only 28% of the seeds reach maturity and present appropriate fertility.

threats:
Predation by goats, rabbits and the introduced game species Ammotragus lervia, has been described as the main threat to this species in the past (Carqué Álamo et al. 2004). This impact has been reported to be currently moderately controlled by the establishment of fences. Other threats are natural competition, fires, strong winds and erosion.

conservationAction:
This species is listed under Appendix I of the Convention on the Conservation of European Wildlife and Natural Habitats (Bern Convention). It is classed as Endangered B2ab(iii) on the Spanish Red List (Moreno 2008) and as species "de interés para los ecosistemas canarios" in the catalogue of protected species of # the Canary Islands.It occurs within the protected areas Parque Nacional Caldera de Taburiente (SCI), Parque Natural de las Nieves (SCI) and SCIs of Barlovento, Garafía, El Paso and Tijarafe (Carqué Álamo et al. 2004). A recovery programme has been developed in Parque Nacional Cadera de Taburiente, which includes population monitoring, establishment of fences, reinforcement measures and benign introduction, introduced herbivorous species control and awareness plans. Seeds are stored in the germplasm banks E.T.S. de Ingenieros Agrónomos and Jardín Canario Viera y Clavijo.Plant material from every subpopulation should be stored in germplasm banks. Introduced populations have to be kept in place and enforced.

redListAssessors:
Carqué Álamo, E., Bañares Baudet, A., Marrero Gómez, M.V. & Palomares Martínez, Á.


taxonomicNotes:
Two subspecies considered: Genista dorycnifolia Font Quer ssp. dorycnifolia and Genista dorycnifolia ssp. grosii (Font Quer) Font Quer & Rothm.

redListCategoryRationale:
Genista dorycnifolia is listed as Data Deficient as there is not enough information to carry out an assessment at species level. The taxon G. dorycnifolia ssp. grosii is assessed as Critically Endangered at national level whereas G. dorycnifolia spp. dorycnifolia is listed as Near Threatened and this might likely be the category for the species level assessment. However, it is not clear which Criterion it would approach.

range:
Genista dorycnifolia is endemic to the island of Ibiza, Balearic Islands, Spain (Euro+Med Plantbase 2006-2010). It has developed into two different subspecies. Genista dorycnifolia ssp. dorycnifolia is abundant in the north-western part of the island. Genista dorycnifolia ssp. grosii is endemic to the north-eastern coast of Ibiza, where it is found in one single location, with an area of occupancy of 1 km² (Torres et al. 2004).

population:
Genista dorycnifolia ssp. dorycnifolia has been described as abundant. Total population size for Genista dorycnifolia ssp. grosii has been reported to be 121 individuals (Torres et al. 2004). The overall population trend is unknown.

habitat:
This shrub grows in heliophile scrublands, on rocky sites and slopes of coastal areas with Teucrium cossonii ssp. punicum, Hippocrepis grosii, Scabiosa cretica, Diplotaxis ibicensis, Juniperus phoenicea, Rosmarinus officinalis, Campanula dichotoma among others   (Torres et al. 2004).

threats:
Threats described for this species are forestry clearance, droughts, grazing and natural fires   (Torres et al. 2004, Commission of the European Communities 2009). Small populations are concentrated in a very restricted area and present a relatively low number of individuals. Its location in forested areas poses high risk due to forest fires.

conservationAction:
This taxon is listed on Annex II of the Habitat Directive and under Appendix I of the Convention on the Conservation of European Wildlife and Natural Habitats (Bern Convention).Genista dorycnifolia spp. dorycnifolia is listed as NT in the Spanish Red List (Moreno 2008).Genista dorycnifolia ssp. grosii is included as species "de especial protección" in the regional catalogue of threatened species and species of special protection of the Balearic Islands. It listed as CR B1ab(iii,v)+2ab(iii,v); C2a(ii) (Moreno 2008).


redListCategoryRationale:
European regional assessment: Data Deficient (DD)EU 27 regional assessment: Vulnerable (VU) D2This plant is endemic to Croatia, Italy and Slovenia. In the latter two countries, the species is found in only three locations with an area of occupancy of less than 500 km² and it is threatened by mountaineering. As there is no information on the populations in Croatia available, the species is assessed as Data Deficient.In the EU 27 member states, Genista holopetala is considered as Vulnerable as it is found in only three locations with an area of occupancy of less than 500 km² and it is threatened by mountaineering.

range:
This European endemic is found in Croatia, Italy and Slovenia (Euro+Med Plantbase 2006-2010). The geographic range for Slovenia is 50 km² and for Italy only 1 km² (which can be interpreted as an area of occupancy below 500 km²) - there are three locations in those two countries (Commission of the European Communities 2009). It is found at several sites along the coast in Croatia (Flora Croatica Database 2004).

population:
Genista holopetala is an extremely rare species. There is just one subpopulation of 850 individuals in Italy, two connected localities are found in Slovenia, but there are no population estimates. The populations are stable (Commission of the European Communities 2009). In Croatia, there is no population data available.

habitat:
This species occurs mainly on rocky wind-exposed grasslands and stabilised screes. It is found in the following Habitats Directive habitats (Commission of the European Communities 2009):6210 Semi-natural dry grasslands and scrubland facies on calcareous substrates (Festuco-Brometalia)8160 Medio-European calcareous scree of hill and montane levels

threats:
The main threat is trampling by mountaineers. Some locations near Trieste were lost at the beginning of the 20th century, due to forest plantations.

conservationAction:
This species is listed on Annex II of the Habitats Directive and under Appendix I of the Convention on the Conservation of European Wildlife and Natural Habitats (Bern Convention). It is listed as Endangered in the Italian Red List (Conti et al. 1997) and as Data Deficient in the Croatian Red Data Book (Flora Croatica Database 2010). Most subpopulations in Italy and Slovenia occur in Natura 2000 sites.


redListCategoryRationale:
European regional assessment: Data Deficient (DD)EU 27 regional assessment: Not Evaluated (NE)Genista tetragona is a narrow endemic of the Dnister river basin, native to Moldova and Ukraine. The species has an extent of occurrence (EOO) of # less than 20,000 km², and possibly less than 5,000 km². The subpopulations are local and isolated. In Ukraine there are only two subpopulations, with few individuals and these are mostly adults. There are eight subpopulations in Moldova. It is only protected in one nature reserve in Moldova. The main threats to this plant are afforestation of the calcareous slopes, grazing and quarrying. It is therefore assessed as Vulnerable B1ab(iii).It does not occur within the EU 27.

range:
Genista tetragona is a narrow endemic of the Dnister river basin, native to Moldova and Ukraine. In Moldova it grows in Dubosari, Grigoriopol and Ribnica districts in the valley of the Dnister and its tributaries Reut, Okna, Rybnica, and Jagorlyk. In Ukraine it occurs in the valley of the Jagorlyk river near Artyrivka and Razivka villages in Krasnooknjanskij district in the Odeska region.The species has an EOO of less than 20,000 km², and possibly less than 5,000 km².

population:
The subpopulations are local and isolated. In Ukraine there are only two subpopulations with few individuals and these are mostly adults. The plants are found at a density of 1-3 individuals/m². There are eight subpopulations in Moldova. Some Moldavian subpopulations (near Molochisul Mare, Strobesti, Haraba and Plopi villages) differ greatly in the number of individuals.

habitat:
This shrub is calciphilous and xerophilous. It grows on calcareous slopes, where plant cover is very thin. Genista tetragona flowers in May, and seeds ripen in July-August.

threats:
The main threats to this plant are afforestation of the calcareous slopes, grazing and quarrying.

conservationAction:
This species is listed under Appendix I of the Convention on the Conservation of European Wildlife and Natural Habitats (Bern Convention).Genista tetragona is included in the Red Data Book of Ukraine (Diduch 2009) as Endangered, in the Red Data Book of Moldova (Dectiu 2002) as Endangered, and in the Red Data Book of the Pridnestrovian Moldavian Republic (Kalakin 2009) as Endangered. It is protected in the Jagorlyk reserve in Moldova. It is necessary to organize protection of all the subpopulations, especially the two in Ukraine.   #

useAndTrade:
There is no information available on actual use and trade but collection may be occurring.


taxonomicNotes:
Hedysarum was reviewed by Chrtkova-Zertova (1968) who divided the European species of the genus into five sections, Hedysarum coronarium L. is a member of sect. Hedysarum.

redListCategoryRationale:
European regional assessment: Least Concern (LC) EU 27 regional assessment: Least Concern (LC)Hedysarum coronarium is a common species and there appears to be no major threats. It is found in several habitats which are not threatened within Europe, populations appears to be stable; therefore, it is regionally assessed in Europe as Least Concern.

range:
Native to southern Spain and northern Africa (United States Department of Agriculture, National Genetic Resources Program 2010) and Euro+Med PlantBase (2006) records it as native in France, Italy, Malta and Spain. In France it is confined to the department of   Bouches-du-Rhône in the southeast and Corsica (Association Tela Botanica 2010).

population:
The exact population size is unknown, but the species is considered relatively common throughout its range and populations are thought to be stable.

habitat:
Hedysarum coronarium is found primarily as a ruderal weed and on banks and roadsides that are not too dry.

threats:
This is a common species within its range and there appears to be no major threats. It is found in several habitats which are not threatened within its region, populations appears to be stable.

conservationAction:
EURISCO reports 31 germplasm accessions held in European genebanks, 10 of which are reported to be of wild or weedy origin. Of the wild accessions, only one originates from within Europe. This accession originates from Spain and is also stored in Comunidad de Madrid, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, Escuela Técnica Superior de Ingenieros Agrónomos, Banco de Germoplasma, Spain (EURISCO Catalogue 2010).

useAndTrade:
Cultivated for fodder; wild populations may harbour important genetic diversity for crop improvement. Also used as an ornamental and as a soil improver, as well as being an important as a bee plant (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010).


redListCategoryRationale:
European regional assessment: Data Deficient (DD)EU 27 regional assessment: Not Evaluated (NE)Hedysarum razoumowianum is  present in Eastern European Russia and extends its range  into the Asian part of Russia and Kazakhstan. Its populations in Europe are very small and threatened by habitat loss and degradation due to various factors. However, there is no information on the population size or trend, area of occupancy, number of locations or the rate of decline. Therefore the species is assessed as Data Deficient but it is suspected that it belongs into a threatened category as its listing on national and regional red lists is alarming.It does not occur within the EU 27.

range:
Hedysarum razoumowianum is present in Eastern European Russia in Bashkortostan, Tatarstan, Chelyabinsk, Samara, Orenburg, Saratov, Ulyanovsk. It extends its range into the Asian part of Russia and Kazakhstan.

habitat:
This species is found in rock steppe, on limestone soil or lime rocks.

threats:
The main threats are habitat destruction caused by the extraction of lime, infrastructure development, forest plantations, grazing, recreational activities, grassland fires, weak ecological flexibility and low competitiveness.

conservationAction:
Hedysarum razoumowianum is listed under Appendix I of the Convention on the Conservation of European Wildlife and Natural Habitats (Bern Convention).This species is included in the Red Data Book of the Russian Federation (Bardunow and Novikov 2008) and in regional Red Data Books as a rare species. In the Red Data Book of the Ulyanovsk region it is classed as an endangered species.


taxonomicNotes:
Lathyrus amphicarpos L. is a secondary wild relative of L. sativus L., the cultivated grass pea (Yunus and Jackson 1991, Sarker et al. 2001, Brink and Belay 2006),&# L. cicera L. and L. odoratus L., and more remotely a tertiary wild relative of L. ochrus (L.) DC. (Kupicha 1983).

redListCategoryRationale:
European regional assessment: Near Threatened (NT) EU 27 regional  assessment: Near Threatened (NT)  The precise area of occupancy (AOO) is thought to be less than  2,000 km2 and the extent of occurrence (EOO) is below 20,000 km2.  There is inferred decline in the area of occupancy and the quality,  extent and area of the habitat due to increased summer fires and overgrazing does pose a serious threat. However, it is still found at more than 10 locations; therefore the species is assessed as Near  Threatened approaching Criterion B1 and B2.

range:
L. amphicarpos is native to much of southern Europe, the International Legume Database   Information Service (2010) records it as being present in the Balearic Islands,   Corsica,  Crete,  Greece,  Italy,  Portugal,  Sicily, Spain and the East Aegean Islands, as well as parts of northern Africa. In France it is only recorded as being present in Corsica (Association Tela Botanica 2000-2010).The precise area of occupancy (AOO) is thought to be less than  2,000 km2 and the extent of occurrence (EOO) is below 20,000 km2.

population:
Lathyrus amphicarpos is not a common species but it is found in several habitats that are threatened within its range; populations appears to be slowly decreasing.

habitat:
L. amphicarpos grows in grasslands, bushlands and thickets (International Legume Database Information Service 2010).

threats:
This species is found in habitats prone to Mediterranean summer fire and so with increasing fires the species is potentially threatened by fire and also overgrazing.

conservationAction:
The genus Lathyrus is listed in Annex I of the International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture as part of the grasspea gene pool. L. amphicarpos is not very well represented in ex situ collections, with only two accessions held by the International Centre for Agricultural Research in the Dry Areas (ICARDA) in Syria (Sarker et al. 2001), no accessions of wild or weedy origin which originate from within Europe are held in European gene banks (EURISCO Catalogue 2010) and there are no known examples of the species being actively conserved in protected areas. In situ the species is likely to be passively conserved in many existing protected areas in throughout its range but as its conservation in these sites is not actively monitored it may be subject to population loss over time from factors such as climate change.

useAndTrade:
Lathyrus amphicarpos L. is a secondary wild relative of L. sativus L., the cultivated grass pea (Yunus and Jackson 1991, Sarker et al. 2001, Brink and Belay 2006), # L. cicera L. and L. odoratus L., and more remotely is a tertiary wild relative of L. ochrus (L.) DC. (Kupicha 1983).This species is likely to be grazed by wild and domesticated species in the pasture and agricultural margins.


taxonomicNotes:
Lathyrus annuus L. belongs to the family Fabaceae, subfamily Faboideae. It is a secondary wild relative of L. sativus L., the cultivated grass pea (Yunus and Jackson 1991, Sarker et al. 2001, Brink and Belay 2006),&# L. cicera L. and L. odoratus L., and more remotely is a tertiary wild relative of L. ochrus (L.) DC. (Kupicha 1983).

redListCategoryRationale:
European regional assessment: Least Concern (LC) EU 27 regional assessment: Least Concern (LC)Although this species is found in habitats prone to Mediterranean summer fire and  overgrazing and so is potentially threatened by fire  and overgrazing in the longer term, the species is scattered throughout its European range, is relatively common and has a fairly wide  distribuition the species and therefore its regional assessment in Europe is Least Concern.

range:
L. annuus has a large distributional range, occurring in much of southern Europe (including the Canary Islands and the Madeira Islands), western Asia and parts of central Asia, as well north Africa (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010). The International Legume Database   Information Service (2010) records it as being present in Albania, Azores, Balearic Islands, Bulgaria, Corsica, Crete, Estonia, Former Yugoslavia, France, Great Britain, Greece, Italy, Malta, Portugal, Sardinia, Sicily, Spain and Turkey in Europe.  Specifically it covers the majority of central and southern Italy, centre and south, possibly in the north west Portugal and in  centre west, south, east Spain.In France it occurs in 22 departments across the south of the country. Also recorded to occur in the departments of   Maine-et-Loire in the west and Somme to the north (Association Tela Botanica 2010).

population:
Lathyrus annuus is common throughout its range, where it is found in several habitats which are not threatened; populations appears to be stable.

habitat:
L. annuus is commonly found on wastelands (Stace 2004). In Portugal it grows in cultivated land.

threats:
Although this species is relatively common and has a fairly wide distribuition the species is found in habitats prone to Mediterranean summer fire and so with increasing fires the species is potentially threatened by fire and overgrazing.

conservationAction:
The genus Lathyrus is listed in Annex I of the International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture as part of the grasspea gene pool.  L. annuus has germplasm stored ex situ in genebanks worldwide, in Europe accessions are held by   Banco de Germoplasma - Departamento de Recursos Genéticos e Melhoramento, Estação Agronómica Nacional, Instituto Nacional de Investigação Agrária (Lisbon, Portugal); Leibniz Institute of Plant Genetics and Crop Plant Research, Gatersleben, Germany); Institute for Plant Genetic Resources 'K.Malkov' (Plovdiv, Bulgaria), Laboratory of Plants Gene Pool and Breeding, Instituto Nacional de Investigación y Tecnología Agraria y Alimentaria, Centro de Recursos Fitogenéticos (Madrid, Spain), University of Yerevan (Yerevan, Armenia), Aegean Agricultural Research Institiute (Menemen, Turkey); ICARDA (Aleppo, Syria) and University of Reading (Reading, UK) gene banks.     EURISCO reports 30 germplasm accessions held in European genebanks, 114 of which are reported to be of wild or weedy origin. Of the wild accessions, eight originate from within Europe. These originate from Belgium (one), Germany (two) and Spain (five) (EURISCO Catalogue 2010).  In situ  the species is likely to be passively conserved in many existing  protected areas in throughout its range but as its conservation in these  sites is not actively monitored it may be subject to population loss  over time from factors such as climate change.

useAndTrade:
Lathyrus annuus L. is a secondary wild relative of L. sativus L., the cultivated grass pea (Yunus and Jackson 1991, Sarker et al. 2001, Brink and Belay 2006), # L. cicera L. and L. odoratus L., and more remotely is a tertiary wild relative of L. ochrus (L.) DC. (Kupicha 1983).This species is likely to be grazed by wild and domesticated species in the pasture and agricultural margins.


taxonomicNotes:
Lathyrus cassius Boiss. belongs to the family Fabaceae, subfamily Faboideae. It is a secondary wild relative of L. sativus L., the cultivated grass pea (Yunus and Jackson 1991, Sarker et al. 2001, Brink and Belay 2006),&# L. cicera L. and L. odoratus L., and more remotely is a tertiary wild relative of L. ochrus (L.) DC. (Kupicha 1983).

redListCategoryRationale:
European regional assessment: Endangered (EN) EU 27 regional assessment: Endangered (EN) It has an extent of occurrence (EOO) of about 250 km2 and an area of occupancy (AOO) of 8 km2. It is found in only two locations in Europe, and the quality of habitat is decreasing. A former site was also lost. The number of mature individuals is 170. The species is therefore regionally assessed in Europe as Endangered.

range:
L. cassius is distributed throughout much of western Asia (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010). It is found only in Cyprus in Europe, in two locations (Prodromos and Sykopetra-Farmakas). The species was known from a third location (in Pedoulas, in 1941), but recent survey failed to find it again. It has an extent of occurrence (EOO) of about 250 km2 and an area of occupancy (AOO) of 8 km2.

population:
Lathyrus cassius is a very rare species in Europe, only found in Cyprus, where only about 170 plants occur. It is also found in Turkey and Iraq but even here it is uncommon. Its population is decreasing.

habitat:
This species is found in road banks, vineyards and mountain sides of igneous formation.

threats:
The main threats are the use of herbicides, changes in land-use, as vineyards are abandoned and road improvement.

conservationAction:
The genus Lathyrus is listed in Annex I of the International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture as part of the grasspea gene pool.  L. cassius is poorly represented in ex situ genebank collections, with only eight accessions being held by the Institute of Botany (Yerevan, Armenia), Millennium Seed Bank (Haywards Heath, United Kingdom), Experimental Station of Plant Production (Ustymivka, Ukraine) and  the International Centre for Agricultural Research in the Dry Areas (ICARDA) in Syria (Sarker et al. 2001). Field margins should be managed in an appropriate way, ensuring that herbicides are not sprayed there. The species populations should be monitored and further research is needed on the distribution to see if additional sub-populations still exist.    EURISCO reports four germplasm accessions held in European genebanks, only one of which is reported to be of wild or weedy origin. Of the wild accessions, none originate from within Europe (EURISCO Catalogue 2010).  In situ  the species is likely to be passively conserved in  many existing  protected areas in throughout its range but as its  conservation in these  sites is not actively monitored it may be subject  to population loss  over time from factors such as climate change.L. cassius has been previously assessed in 2007 in the Red Data Book of the Flora of Cyprus (Tsintides and Christodoulou 2007).

useAndTrade:
L. cassius is a secondary wild relative of L. sativus L., the cultivated grass pea (Yunus and Jackson 1991, Sarker et al. 2001, Brink and Belay 2006), # L. cicera L. and L. odoratus L.,&# and more remotely is a tertiary wild relative of L. ochrus (L.) DC. (Kupicha 1983).This species is likely to be grazed by wild and domesticated species in the pasture and agricultural margins.


taxonomicNotes:
Lathyrus cicera L. belongs to Lathyrus section  and is a secondary wild relative of L. sativus L., the cultivated grass pea (Yunus and Jackson 1991, Sarker et al. 2001, Brink and Belay 2006),&# L. cicera L. and L. odoratus L., and more remotely is a tertiary wild relative of L. ochrus (L.) DC. (Kupicha 1983).

redListCategoryRationale:
European regional assessment: Least Concern (LC)    EU 27 regional assessment: Least Concern (LC)Due to the widespread geographic and habitat nature of this species and the fact that there appear no specific major threats to this species, therefore its regional assessment in Europe is Least Concern.

range:
L. cicera is very widespread, being found in most of southern and eastern Europe, western and central Asia, and northern Africa (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010). The International Legume Database   Information Service (2010)  records it as being present in Albania,   Balearic Islands,   Bulgaria,   Corsica,   Crete, Former Yugoslavia,   France,   Greece,   Italy,   Malta,   Portugal,   Romania,   Sardinia,   Sicily,   Spain,   Switzerland,   Turkey in Europe and   Ukraine. In France it is widespread across the south of the country also found in several departments in the north (Association Tela Botanica 2010).

population:
Lathyrus cicera is reasonably common throughout its range, where it is found in several habitats   which are not threatened; populations appears to be  stable. Throughout its distribution it is cultivated, primarily in marginal agricultural environments.In Spain, there has been a decrease in the production of L. cicera  in recent years. Commonly grown in mountainous regions, samples are  now generally only found at the edges of fields, or in home gardens, and  there seems to be a very real threat that L. cicera will be lost if a comprehensive germplasm collection is not made (Campbell 1997). In such marginal areas it is being replaced by alternative grain and firage legume species.

habitat:
L. cicera is found in pastures, fallows, forest clearings and on roadsides, and occurs up to altitudes of 1,000 m (FAO 2010). It grows on soils with pH between 6.5 and 8.5 (Bennett et al. 1998). It is the most common Lathyrus species in highland and cold temperate sites (Sarker et al. 2001).

threats:
In the Mediterranean, changes in agricultural practice are threatening the diversity in Lathyrus species. Newly cleared cultivated land and the subsequent decline of permanent pastures has lead to the disappearance of habitats for wild climax community species. Furthermore, the increased use of high input farming and new, uniform varieties replacing traditional landraces is destroying diversity in wild types of L. cicera (Sarker et al. 2001). This species is found in habitats prone to Mediterranean summer fire and  so with increasing fires the species is potentially threatened by fire  and overgrazing. In an assessment of the species by Moser et al. (2002) it was found to be Critically Endangered (BGCI 2009), but this species is well known to the assessor and is not threatened throughout its range and is even cultivated in Syria and the Middle East.

conservationAction:
The genus Lathyrus is listed in Annex I of the International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture as part of the grasspea gene pool.Numerous ex situ accessions exist in gene banks worldwide, including the Banco de Germoplasma - Departamento de Recursos Genéticos e Melhoramento, Estação Agronómica Nacional, Instituto Nacional de Investigação Agrária (Lisbon, Portugal), Leibniz Institute of Plant Genetics and Crop Plant Research, Gatersleben, Germany), Institute for Agrobotany (Tapioszele, Hungary), Greek Genebank, Agricultural Research Center of Macedonia and Thrace, National Agricultural Research Foundation (Thessalonica, Greece), Institute for Plant Genetic Resources 'K.Malkov' (Plovdiv, Bulgaria), N.I. Vavilov All-Russian Scientific Research Institute of Plant Industry (St. Petersburg, Russian Federation),   University of Reading (Reading, UK)  and  International Centre for Agricultural Research in the Dry Areas (ICARDA) in Syria (182 accessions) (Sarker et al. 2001).    EURISCO reports 558 germplasm accessions held in European genebanks, 94 of which are reported to be of wild or weedy origin. Of the wild accessions, 57 originate from within Europe (EURISCO Catalogue 2010).  In situ  the species is likely to be passively conserved in  many existing  protected areas throughout its range but as its  conservation in these  sites is not actively monitored it may be subject  to population loss  over time from factors such as climate change.

useAndTrade:
L. cicera is a secondary wild relative of L. sativus L., the cultivated grass pea (Yunus and Jackson 1991, Sarker et al. 2001, Brink and Belay 2006), # L. cicera L. and L. odoratus L., and more remotely is a tertiary wild relative of L. ochrus (L.) DC. (Kupicha 1983).This species is likely to be grazed by wild and domesticated species in the pasture and agricultural margins.


taxonomicNotes:
Lathyrus cirrhosus Ser. belongs to the family Fabaceae, subfamily Faboideae, and is a secondary wild relative of L. sativus L., the cultivated grass pea (Yunus and Jackson 1991, Sarker et al. 2001, Brink and Belay 2006),&# L. cicera L. and L. odoratus L.,&# and more remotely is a tertiary wild relative of L. ochrus (L.) DC. (Kupicha 1983).

redListCategoryRationale:
Listed as Least Concern as it has a wide ecological range, and presumed overall population stability, therefore it is assessed as Least Concern.

range:
L. cirrhosus is found in certain parts of southern Europe (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010). It is present in Sardinia, southern France and northeast of Spain.In France it occurs in the southern departments of   Corrèze, Aveyron,   Lozère,   Ardèche,   Ariège,   Pyrénées Orientales, Aude,   Hérault and   Bouches-du-Rhône (Association Tela Botanica 2010).

population:
Lathyrus cirrhosus is a restricted species but within its range it is found in several habitats which are not threatened; populations appear to be stable.

habitat:
It lives in the woods and hills sides of mountains. It is also found at the edge of agricultural fields on acidic soil and meadows.

conservationAction:
The genus Lathyrus is listed in Annex I of the International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture as part of the grasspea gene pool.  Only  one accession  of # L. cirrhosus is held in Europe at the Leibniz Institute of Plant Genetics and Crop Plant Research, Gatersleben (Germany) and two accessions are currently held ex situ at the Regional Plant Introduction Station in Washington, USA (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010). The species occurs in protected areas, but it is likely to be passively conserved in   many existing  protected areas throughout its range but as its   conservation in these  sites is not actively monitored it may be subject   to population loss  over time from factors such as climate change.    EURISCO reports only one germplasm accession held in European genebanksand it is not reported to be of wild or weedy origin or to originate from within Europe (EURISCO Catalogue 2010).

useAndTrade:
L. cirrhosus is a secondary wild relative of L. sativus L., the cultivated grass pea (Yunus and Jackson 1991, Sarker et al. 2001, Brink and Belay 2006), # L. cicera L. and L. odoratus L., and more remotely is a tertiary wild relative of L. ochrus (L.) DC. (Kupicha 1983).This species is likely to be grazed by wild and domesticated species in the pasture and agricultural margins.


taxonomicNotes:
Lathyrus gorgoni Parl. is a secondary wild relative of L. sativus L., the cultivated grass pea (Yunus and Jackson 1991, Sarker et al. 2001, Brink and Belay 2006),&# L. cicera L. and L. odoratus L., and more remotely is a tertiary wild relative of L. ochrus (L.) DC. (Kupicha 1983).

redListCategoryRationale:
European regional assessment: Least Concern (LC) EU 27  regional assessment: Least Concern (LC)Listed as Least  Concern because of the lack of a species specific threat and the overall  population stability, but there is a need to watch this species carefully as there are relatively few European populations.

range:
L . gorgoni is found throught much of western Asia, as well as parts of southeast Europe and north Africa (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010). The International Legume Database   Information Service (2010)  records it as being present in Malta,  Sardinia,  Sicily,  Turkey in  Europe, Cyprus and  East Aegean  Islands.

population:
Lathyrus gorgoni is a geographically restricted species but it is found in several habitats which are not threatened; populations appear to be stable.

habitat:
This species is spatially restricted in Europe but is often associated with disturbed anthropogenic habitats such as roadsides or field margins that are prone to summer fires and overgrazing.

threats:
This species is spatially restricted in Europe but more common in the Middle East. In Europe, it is often associated  with disturbed anthropogenic habitats such as roadsides or field margins  that are prone to summer fires and overgrazing and as such is threatened.

conservationAction:
The genus Lathyrus is listed in Annex I of the International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture as part of the grasspea gene pool.  L. gorgoni has germplasm stored ex situ in the Leibniz Institute of Plant Genetics and Crop Plant Research, Gatersleben (Germany); N.I. Vavilov All-Russian Scientific Research Institute of Plant Industry (St. Petersburg, Russian Federation); Experimental Station of Plant Production (Ustymivka, Ukraine); Aegean Agricultural Research Institiute (Menemen, Turkey); ICARDA (Aleppo, Syria) and University of Reading (Reading, UK) gene banks.    EURISCO reports eight germplasm accessions held in European genebanks, four of which are reported to be of wild or weedy origin. Of the wild accessions, none originate from within Europe (EURISCO Catalogue 2010).  In situ  the species is likely to be passively conserved in   many existing  protected areas  throughout its range but as its   conservation in these  sites is not actively monitored it may be subject   to population loss  over time from factors such as climate change.

useAndTrade:
L. gorgoni is a secondary wild relative of L. sativus L., the cultivated grass pea (Yunus and Jackson 1991, Sarker et al. 2001, Brink and Belay 2006), # L. cicera L. and L. odoratus L., and more remotely is a tertiary wild relative of L. ochrus (L.) DC. (Kupicha 1983).This species is likely to be grazed by wild and domesticated species in the pasture and agricultural margins.


taxonomicNotes:
Lathyrus grandiflorus Sm. belongs to the family Fabaceae, subfamily Faboideae, and is a secondary wild relative of L. sativus L., the cultivated grass pea (Yunus and Jackson 1991, Sarker et al. 2001, Brink and Belay 2006), L. cicera L. and L. odoratus L., and more remotely is a tertiary wild relative of L. ochrus (L.) DC. (Kupicha 1983).

redListCategoryRationale:
European regional assessment: Least Concern (LC)EU 27 regional assessment: Least Concern (LC)This species is relatively rare and has a scattered population. However, it is found in several countries, its population seems to be stable and is not facing major threats, therefore its regional assessment in Europe is Least Concern.

range:
L. grandiflorus is found throughout most of southeastern Europe (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010). The International Legume Database   Information Service (2010)  records it as being present in Albania,  Bulgaria, Former  Yugoslavia,  France,  Great  Britain,  Greece,  Italy and  Sicily, but it is #  not recorded as present anywhere in France or Corsica (Association Tela Botanica 2010) and Stace (1997) says it is introduced and naturalized within the UK.

population:
This is a rather rare species in Greece and Bulgaria, but it is much more common in Italy. It is found in several habitats which are not threatened; populations appear to be stable.

habitat:
This species occurs in clearings in forests.

conservationAction:
The genus Lathyrus is listed in Annex I of the International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture as part of the grasspea gene pool.  No seed accessions are held in European gene banks and only one accession of L. grandiflorus is held ex situ at a genebank, the Regional Plant Introduction Station in Washington, USA (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010). Material should be gathered for ex situ conservation. No germplasm accessions are reported by EURISCO to be held in European genebanks (EURISCO Catalogue 2010).It occurs in protected areas, so monitoring and active management of the species are recommended. In situ  the species is likely to be passively conserved in   many existing  protected areas throughout its range but as its   conservation in these  sites is not actively monitored it may be subject   to population loss  over time from factors such as climate change.

useAndTrade:
L. grandiflorus is a secondary wild relative of L. sativus L., the cultivated grass pea (Yunus and Jackson 1991, Sarker et al. 2001, Brink and Belay 2006), # L. cicera L. and L. odoratus L., and more remotely is a tertiary wild relative of L. ochrus (L.) DC. (Kupicha 1983).This species is likely to be grazed by wild and domesticated species in the pasture and agricultural margins.

redListAssessors:
Uzundzhalieva, K., Economou, G., Smekalova, T. & Maxted, N.


taxonomicNotes:
Lathyrus heterophyllus L. belongs to the family Fabaceae, subfamily Faboideae, and is a secondary wild relative of L. sativus L., the cultivated grass pea (Yunus and Jackson 1991, Sarker et al. 2001, Brink and Belay 2006),&# L. cicera L. and L. odoratus L., and more remotely is a tertiary wild relative of L. ochrus (L.) DC. (Kupicha 1983).

redListCategoryRationale:
European regional assessment: Least Concern (LC)EU 27 regional assessment:  Least Concern (LC)Lathyrus hterophyllus is  reasonably  common throughout its range, where it is found in several  habitats    which are not threatened, populations appear to be  stable, therefore it is assessed as Least Concern.

range:
L. heterophyllus is distributed throughout much of Europe, from Sweden to Portugal and Spain (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010). The International Legume Database   Information Service (2010)  records it as being present in Austria,   Czech Republic, Slovakia,   France,   Germany,   Great Britain,   Italy,   Poland,   Portugal,   Sardinia,   Spain,   Sweden and   Switzerland. In France it occurs in 11 departments to the east of the country and is also recorded in the department of Gers to the southwest (Association Tela Botanica 2010).

population:
Lathyrus hterophyllus is reasonably  common throughout its range, where it is found in several habitats    which are not threatened; populations appear to be  stable. In Germany, some regional data considers it  threatened, but not everywhere; in the Czech Republic populations are rare and scattered, while in Poland it is very rare.

habitat:
The habitat of this species is grasslands, forest edges and shrub lands.

conservationAction:
The genus Lathyrus is listed in Annex I of the International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture as part of the grasspea gene pool.  The   Millennium Seed Bank (Haywards Heath, United Kingdom) has two accessions of L. heterophyllus, further accessions are held at the Aegean Agricultural Research Institiute (Menemen, Turkey), ICARDA  (Aleppo, Syria) and University of Reading (Reading, UK) gene banks.    EURISCO reports only two germplasm accessions held in European genebanks, one of which is reported to be of wild or weedy origin. This one wild accession originates from France and is also stored in France (Réseau Plantes fourragères et à gazon) (EURISCO Catalogue 2010).  In situ  the species is likely to be passively conserved in    many existing  protected areas throughout its range but as its    conservation in these  sites is not actively monitored it may be subject    to population loss  over time from factors such as climate change.In the Czeck Republic it is regarded as Critically Endangered on the national Red List. In Germany some regions in the south are listed as threatened.Incorrect identification seems to be a problem in the field.In France this species is protected in the eastern region of Franche-Comté (Association Tela Botanica 2010).

useAndTrade:
L. heterophyllus is a secondary wild relative of L. sativus L., the cultivated grass pea (Yunus and Jackson 1991, Sarker et al. 2001, Brink and Belay 2006), # L. cicera L. and L. odoratus L., and more remotely is a tertiary wild relative of L. ochrus (L.) DC. (Kupicha 1983).This species is likely to be grazed by wild and domesticated species in the pasture and agricultural margins.

redListAssessors:
Holubec, V., Uzundzhalieva, K., Vörösváry, G., Donnini, D., Bulińska, Z., Strajeru, S. & Osborne, J.


taxonomicNotes:
Lathyrus hierosolymitanus Boiss. is a secondary wild relative of L. sativus L., the cultivated grass pea (Yunus and Jackson 1991, Sarker et al. 2001, Brink and Belay 2006),&# L. cicera L. and L. odoratus L., and more remotely is a tertiary wild relative of L. ochrus (L.) DC. (Kupicha 1983).

redListCategoryRationale:
European regional assessment: Least Concern (LC)EU 27 regional assessment: Least Concern (LC)This species is widespread and common and its population is considered stable. It is not facing major threats, therefore its regional assessment in Europe is Least Concern.

range:
L. hierosolymitanus only occurs in Greece in Europe, but is also found in parts of western Asia and north Africa (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010).

population:
This is a widespread species, common throughout its range, even though typically found as small groups of individuals (three to four individuals). Its population is considered stable.

habitat:
It is often found in woodland margins, cultivated margins and roadsides.

threats:
Use of herbicides and overgrazing are the main threats.

conservationAction:
The genus Lathyrus is listed in Annex I of the International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture as part of the grasspea gene pool.  L. hierosolymitanus has germplasm stored ex situ in several genebanks worldwide, Leibniz Institute of Plant Genetics and Crop Plant Research, Gatersleben, Germany), Millennium Seed Bank (Haywards Heath, United Kingdom), Experimental Station of Plant Production (Ustymivka, Ukraine), Aegean Agricultural Research Institiute (Menemen, Turkey), ICARDA (Aleppo, Syria) and University of Reading (Reading, UK) gene banks. In total, 144 accessions are stored in genebanks (Sarker et al. 2001). Research on distribution, and specifically to know if it occurs in protected areas, should be condicted.    EURISCO reports seven germplasm accessions held in European genebanks, five of which are reported to be of wild or weedy origin. Of the wild accessions, only one originates from within Europe. This accession originates from Cyprus and is stored in Ustymivka Experimental Station of Plant Production, Ukraine (EURISCO Catalogue 2010).  In situ  the species is likely to be passively conserved in     many existing  protected areas throughout its range but as its     conservation in these  sites is not actively monitored it may be subject     to population loss  over time from factors such as climate change.

useAndTrade:
Lathyrus hierosolymitanus is a secondary wild relative of L. sativus L., the cultivated grass pea (Yunus and Jackson 1991, Sarker et al. 2001, Brink and Belay 2006), # L. cicera L. and L. odoratus L., and more remotely is a tertiary wild relative of L. ochrus (L.) DC. (Kupicha 1983).  This species is likely to be grazed by wild and domesticated species in the pasture and agricultural margins.


taxonomicNotes:
Lathyrus hirsutus L. is cultivated in several parts of the world as a forage crop, as well as  for pasture, fodder and soil improvement (Duke 1981), as such, wild  types of L. hirsustus are potential gene donors for cultivated varieties. It is a secondary wild relative of L. sativus L., the cultivated grass pea (Yunus and Jackson 1991, Sarker et al. 2001, Brink and Belay 2006),&# L. cicera L. and L. odoratus L.,&# and more remotely is a tertiary wild relative of L. ochrus (L.) DC. (Kupicha 1983).

redListCategoryRationale:
European regional assessment: Least Concern (LC)    EU 27 regional assessment: Least Concern (LC)Due to the widespread nature of this species throughout Europe the fact that it is present in several habitats that are not threatened, its regional assessment in Europe is Least Concern.

range:
L. hisutus is native to most of Europe and temperate Asia, as well as certain areas of the Indian subcontinent and parts of north Africa. It has been naturalised in the Azores (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010). The International Legume Database   Information Service (2010)   records it as being present in Albania, Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Corsica, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Estonia, Former Yugoslavia, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Italy, Latvia, Moldova, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Russia in Europe, Sardinia, Sicily, Spain, Switzerland, Turkey in Europe and Ukraine. In France it is widespread, occurs in the majority of departments. Not recorded in the northern departments of Manche,   Seine-Maritime, Ardennes, Paris,   Hauts-de-Seine,   Seine-Saint-Denis, the eastern department of Doubs and the southern department of   Lozère (Association Tela Botanica 2010).

population:
This is a widespread species, rather common throughout its range, it is found in several habitats which are not threatened; its populations appear to be stable.

habitat:
L. hirsutus is a winter annual species which flowers in early April. It grows best on well-drained soils, although it also grows well on soils too wet for other legumes (namely clover). # It can grow on lime and acid soils, and in wet conditions, although it it most successful on light, sandy soils. It can tolerate an average rainfall of 820 mm, an average temperature of 13.6ºC, and an average pH of 6.6 (Duke 1981).

threats:
This species is likely to be grazed by wild and domesticated species in the pasture and agricultural margins.

conservationAction:
The genus Lathyrus is listed in Annex I of the International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture as part of the grasspea gene pool.  L. hisutus is well represented in ex situ genebanks in Europe with 134 accession spread across 14 genebanks sampled from throughout the species range, despite having accessions in a number of collections, including the International Centre for Agricultural Research in the Dry Areas (ICARDA) in Syria (17 accessions) and the Regional Plant Introduction Station in the USA (16 accessions). #     EURISCO reports 129 germplasm accessions held in European genebanks, 94 of which are reported to be of wild or weedy origin. Of the wild accessions, 23 originate from within Europe (EURISCO Catalogue 2010).  In situ  the species is likely to be passively conserved in     many existing  protected areas in throughout its range but as its     conservation in these  sites is not actively monitored it may be subject     to population loss  over time from factors such as climate change.In Slovakia, L. hirsutus is classified as Endangered (EN) (Eliáš P. jun  et al. 2007).Assessments by Moser et al. (2002) and Colling (2005) found L. hirsutus to be Critically Endangered (BGCI 2009).

useAndTrade:
L. hirsutus is cultivated in several parts of the world as a forage crop, as well as for pasture, fodder and soil improvement (Duke 1981), as such, wild types of L. hirsustus are potential gene donors for cultivated varieties. It is a secondary wild relative of L. sativus L., the cultivated grass pea (Yunus and Jackson 1991, Sarker et al. 2001, Brink and Belay 2006), # L. cicera L. and L. odoratus L.,&# and more remotely is a tertiary wild relative of L. ochrus (L.) DC. (Kupicha 1983).


taxonomicNotes:
Lathyrus latifolius L. belongs to the family Fabaceae, subfamily Faboideae, and is a secondary wild relative of L. sativus L., the cultivated grass pea (Yunus and Jackson 1991, Sarker et al. 2001, Brink and Belay 2006),&# L. cicera L. and L. odoratus L., and more remotely is a tertiary wild relative of L. ochrus (L.) DC. (Kupicha 1983).

redListCategoryRationale:
European regional assessment: Least Concern (LC) EU 27 regional assessment: Least Concern (LC)This species is widespread throughout Europe, it is present in several habitats that are not threatened and its popultaion is considered stable.

range:
L. latifolius is native to much of central, southern and eastern Europe, and parts of north Africa. The International Legume Database   Information Service (2010) records it as being present in Albania, Austria, Balearic Islands, Bulgaria, Corsica, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Former Yugoslavia, France, Greece, Hungary, Italy, Lithuania, Moldova, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Sardinia, Sicily, Spain, Switzerland and Ukraine. In France it is widespread, occurs in the majority of departments. Not recorded in the departments of Loire-Atlantique, Indre-et-Loire, Loir-et-Cher, Hauts-de-Seine, Meuse, Vosges and Territoire de Belfort (Association Tela Botanica 2010).It is cultivated, and naturalised, in many temperate regions worldwide (USDA, ARS, Plant Genetic Resources Program 2010).

population:
This is a widespread species, rather common throughout its range. It is found in several habitats which are not threatened and populations appear to be stable.

habitat:
Lathyrus latifolius in the UK is widely naturalised and populations are commonly bulked by garden escapes. It is found in hedges, roadsides and railway embankments (Preston et al. 2002).

conservationAction:
The genus Lathyrus is listed in Annex I of the International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture as part of the grasspea gene pool.  L. latifolius has germplasm stored ex situ in numerous genebanks worldwide, notably IBEAS at   Unviersitéde Pau et des Pays de l'Adour in France (326 accessions), plus Banco de Germoplasma - Departamento de Recursos Genéticos e Melhoramento, Estação Agronómica Nacional, Instituto Nacional de Investigação Agrária (Lisbon, Portugal), Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, Escuela Técnica Superior de Ingenieros Agrónomos, Banco de Germoplasma (Madrid, Spain), Leibniz Institute of Plant Genetics and Crop Plant Research, Gatersleben, Germany), Institute of Biological, Environmental   Rural Sciences, Aberystwyth University (Aberystwyth, UK), Institute for Agrobotany (Tapioszele, Hungary), Millennium Seed Bank (Haywards Heath, United Kingdom), N.I. Vavilov All-Russian Scientific Research Institute of Plant Industry (St. Petersburg, Russian Federation), Nordic Genetic Resource Center (Alnarp, Sweden), Plant Breeding and Acclimatization Institute (Radikov, Poland), Réseau Plantes fourragères et à gazon (Versailles, France), Scientific Center of Agrobiotechnology (Yerevan, Armenia), Romanian National Genebank (Suceava, Romania), Experimental Station of Plant Production (Ustymivka, Ukraine), Aegean Agricultural Research Institiute (Menemen, Turkey), ICARDA (Aleppo, Syria) and University of Reading (Reading, UK) gene banks. In total, 351 accessions are held in genebanks (Sarker et al. 2001).    EURISCO reports 36 germplasm accessions held in European genebanks, 16 of which are reported to be of wild or weedy origin. Of the wild accessions, 14 originate from within Europe. Of these 14 European and wild accessions, eight originate from France, one from Germany, one from Netherlands, one from Portugal, one from Romania, one from Spain and one from Ukraine (EURISCO Catalogue 2010).  In situ  the species is likely to be passively conserved in     many existing  protected areas in throughout its range but as its     conservation in these  sites is not actively monitored it may be subject     to population loss  over time from factors such as climate change.

useAndTrade:
L. latifolius is a secondary wild relative of L. sativus L., the cultivated grass pea (Yunus and Jackson 1991, Sarker et al. 2001, Brink and Belay 2006), # L. cicera L. and L. odoratus L., and more remotely is a tertiary wild relative of L. ochrus (L.) DC. (Kupicha 1983).


taxonomicNotes:
Lathyrus ochrus (L.) DC. belongs to the family Fabaceae, subfamily Faboideae, and is a tertiary wild relative of the cultivated grass-pea, L. sativus L. (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010).

redListCategoryRationale:
European regional assessment: Least Concern (LC)EU 27 regional  assessment: Least Concern (LC)Althought this species is relatively restricted in terms of geographic distribution and  is restricted to anthropogenic environments and so potentially threatened, the population levels appear stable in Europe and as there is no specific threat to the species, therefore it is regionally assessed in Europe as  Least Concern.

range:
L. ochrus is native to much of southern and eastern Europe, as well as western Asia and northern Africa. It has been naturalised in the Azores (USDA, ARS, Plant Genetic Resources Program 2010). The International Legume Database   Information Service (2010)    records it as being present in Albania,   Balearic Islands,   Corsica,   Crete,   Former Yugoslavia,   France,   Greece,   Italy,   Malta,   Portugal,   Sardinia,   Sicily,   Spain,   Turkey in Europe, Cprus and the East Aegean Islands. Its present or historic cultivation may have extended its distribution. In France it is confined to eight south and southeastern departments (Pyrénées Orientales, Aude,   Hérault, Gard, Vaucluse,   Bouches-du-Rhône, Var and Alpes-Maritimes) and Corsica. Also found in the western department of Gironde (Association Tela Botanica 2010).

population:
This distinctive species is locally abundant throughout its southern European range and population levels appear to be stable.

habitat:
This species was histroically cultivated in Europe and remains associated with anthropogenic environments.

threats:
The species population levels may have been bulstered by escapes from cultivation and as cultivation ceased in Europe the species may have declined. It is still associated with anthropogenic environments so is likely to be threatened by modern agricultural practices.

conservationAction:
The genus Lathyrus is listed in Annex I of the International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture as part of the grasspea gene pool.  L. ochrus is fairly well represented in ex situ genebank collections, with germplasm being held at   the International Centre for Agricultural Research in the Dry Areas (ICARDA) in Syria (136 accessions) and the Australian Temperate Field Crop Collection in Australia (85 accessions). In total, 291 accessions are held in genebanks worldwide (Sarker et al. 2001), but all the conserved accessions were sampled from outside of Europe. #     EURISCO reports 185 germplasm accessions held in European genebanks, 45 of which are reported to be of wild or weedy origin. Of the wild accessions, 28 originate from within Europe (EURISCO Catalogue 2010).  There is no active management of L. ochrus in in situ protected areas, however, it is likely to be passively conserved in     many existing  protected areas in throughout its range but as its     conservation in these  sites is not actively monitored it may be subject     to population loss  over time from factors such as climate change.An assessment by Nikolic and Topic (2005) found L. ochrus to be Critically Endangered (BGCI 2009).

useAndTrade:
L. ochrus is a tertiary wild relative and therefore a potential gene donor for the cultivated grass-pea, L. sativus (USDA, ARS, National  Genetic Resources Program 2010). # It was histroically cultivated in Europe and is still cultivated in Turkey and the Middle East as animal fodder.This species is likely to be grazed by wild and domesticated species in the pasture and agricultural margins.


taxonomicNotes:
Lathyrus odoratus L. belongs to the family Fabaceae, subfamily Faboideae, and is cultivated worldwide as sweetpea and&# is a secondary wild relative of L. sativus L., the cultivated grass pea (Yunus and Jackson 1991, Sarker et al. 2001, Brink and Belay 2006), L. cicera L. and L. odoratus L., and more remotely is a tertiary wild relative of L. ochrus (L.) DC. (Kupicha 1983).

redListCategoryRationale:
This species is only found in the extreme southwest of Italy and Sicily, where the area of occupancy (AOO) is thought to be less than 2,000 km² and extent of occurrence (EOO) is below 20,000 km². There is inferred decline in the area of occupancy and the quality, extent and area of habitat due to increased summer fires and overgrazing does pose a serious threat, as well as over collection from the wild. However, it is still found growing naturally in protected areas in more than ten sites, therefore the species is assessed as Near Threatened approaching Criterion B1 and B2.

range:
L. odoratus is native only to Italy, but is widely cultivated worldwide and naturalised in some areas (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010). It is native to southwestern Italy and Sicily but not Sardinia. The extent of ocurrence (EOO) is less than 20,000 km2 and the area of occupancy  (AOO) is thought to be less than  2,000 km2.

population:
This is a very restricted # species in the wild but is very widely cultivated as sweetpeas throughout the world, but due to extensive commercial value of the species this is subject to wild collection threat. Its popultaion is decreasing.

habitat:
Its habitat is forests and shrubs (is a vine so needs support).

threats:
Due to extensive cultivation of the species and its high commercial value, this is subject to wild collection threat.

conservationAction:
The genus Lathyrus is listed in Annex I of the International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture as part of the grasspea gene pool.  L. odoratus is poorly represented in ex situ genebank collections, with only 33 accessions held in Europe and 37 accessions being held worldwide, which is very surprising given the economic value of sweatpeas globally. The Regional Plant Introduction Station in Washington, USA, holds the largest collection with 23 accessions (Sarker et al. 2001).    EURISCO reports 33 germplasm accessions held in European genebanks, seven of which are reported to be of wild or weedy origin. Of the wild accessions, only four originate from within Europe. These four accessions originate from Belgium (one), Ukraine (two) and UK (one) (EURISCO Catalogue 2010).  There is no active management of L. odoratus in in situ  protected areas, however, it is likely to be passively conserved in      many existing  protected areas in throughout its range but as its      conservation in these  sites is not actively monitored it may be subject      to population loss  over time from factors such as climate change.It is considered of low risk in three regions mainland Italy.The species occurs on protected areas.

useAndTrade:
L. odoratus is cultivated worldwide as sweetpea and # is a secondary wild relative of L. sativus L., the cultivated grass pea (Yunus and Jackson 1991, Sarker et al. 2001, Brink and Belay 2006),&# L. cicera L. and L. odoratus L., and more remotely is a tertiary wild relative of L. ochrus (L.) DC. (Kupicha 1983).  This species is likely to be grazed by wild and domesticated species in the pasture and agricultural margins.


taxonomicNotes:
Lathyrus rotundifolius Willd. belongs to the family Fabaceae, subfamily Faboideae, and is a tertiary wild relative of the cultivated grass-pea, L. sativus L. It has one subspecies native to Europe, Lathyrus rotundifolius Willd. subsp. rotundifolius (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010).

redListCategoryRationale:
European regional assessment: Near Threatened (NT) EU 27 regional assessment: Not Evaluated (NE)  The area of occupancy (AOO) is below 2,000 km2 and the extent of occurrence (EOO) is below 20,000 km2. There is a continuing decline in the AOO and the quality, extent and area of habitat due to intensive tourism development. However, it is found at more than ten sites and the populations itself are assumed to be stable. Therefore the species is assessed as Near Threatened approaching Criterion B1 and B2.   It does not occur within the EU 27.

range:
The distribution of L. rotundifolius is restricted to certain parts of western Asia and eastern Europe (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010). In Europe, the species is confined to the mountains of south Crimea. The extent of occurrence (EOO) is less than 20,000 km2 and the area of occupancy (AOO) is less than 2,000 km2.

population:
The populations are stable though scattered. It is only found in patches with a few individuals.

habitat:
The species inhabits mountain territories in broadleaved forests and between shrubs.

threats:
The area where this species occurs is under tourism development and leads to habitat degradation of the mountains.

conservationAction:
The genus Lathyrus is listed in Annex I of the International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture as part of the grasspea gene pool.  L. rotundifolius is poorly represented in ex situ genebank collections, with only two accessions being held by #the International Centre for Agricultural Research in the Dry Areas (ICARDA) in Syria (Sarker et al. 2001).Preserved in a few ex situ collections in Moscow, St. Petersburg, and Ukrainian genebanks as well as in botanical gardens.    EURISCO reports 29 germplasm accessions held in European genebanks, 13 of which are reported to be of wild or weedy origin. Of the wild accessions, none originate from within Europe (EURISCO Catalogue 2010).  There is no active management of L. rotundifolius in in situ  protected areas, however, it is likely to be passively conserved in      many existing  protected areas in throughout its range but as its      conservation in these  sites is not actively monitored it may be subject      to population loss  over time from factors such as climate change.

useAndTrade:
Lathyrus rotundifolius is a secondary wild relative of L. sativus L., the cultivated grass pea (Yunus and Jackson 1991, Sarker et al. 2001, Brink and Belay 2006), # L. cicera L. and L. odoratus L., and more remotely is a tertiary wild relative of L. ochrus (L.) DC. (Kupicha 1983).  This species is likely to be grazed by wild and domesticated species in the pasture and agricultural margins.


taxonomicNotes:
Lathyrus stenophyllus Boiss. & Heldr. belongs to the family Fabaceae, subfamily Faboideae, it  is a secondary wild relative of L. sativus L., the cultivated grass pea (Yunus and Jackson 1991, Sarker et al. 2001, Brink and Belay 2006),&# L. cicera L. and L. odoratus L., and more remotely is a tertiary wild relative of L. ochrus (L.) DC. (Kupicha 1983).

redListCategoryRationale:
European regional assessment: Least Concern (LC)EU 27 regional assessment: Least Concern (LC)In Turkey, the species seems to be fairly stable, but in Greece, it is facing a higher level of threats, due to tourist and human activities. In the East Aegean Islands the population is however stable though the exact distribution is uncertain. Therefore even though rare at the continental level the populations appear stable in Europe and as no specific  threat for the species, it is regionall assessed in Europe as   Least Concern.

range:
L. stenophyllus is found only in Greece, Lebanon, Israel, Syria and Turkey (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010). According to  Greuter et al. (1989) in Europe it is only found in Crete; however, according to Davis (1970) it also occurs in the East Aegean Islands. The extent of occurrence (EOO) is 10,000 km2.

population:
The population size and trend are unknown but it is  found in several  habitats    which are not threatened, so it is believed that the population trend is considered  stable. This species has been surveyed and collected  in the East Aegean islands and the habitats in which the species were found were  diverse and stable (N. Maxted pers. comm. 2011).

habitat:
This species is found in road banks, vineyard, egdes of cultivations and forest, limestone mountain sides. It flowers from end of March to May (Davis 1970).

threats:
Increase in fires frequency is a threat to this species. In some islands, overgrazing has also a negative impact. Urban sprawl, especially in Rhodes, is also threatening the species. # However, the species is sufficiently common for it not to be threatened by these factors.

conservationAction:
The genus Lathyrus is listed in Annex I of the International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture as part of the grasspea gene pool.  L. stenophyllus is poorly represented in ex situ germplasm collections, with only two accessions being held by the International Centre for Agricultural Research in the Dry Areas (ICARDA) in Syria (Sarker et al. 2001). It is also present in the Greek genebank. No germplasm accessions are reported by EURISCO to be held in European genebanks (EURISCO Catalogue 2010).There is no active management of L. stenophyllus in in situ  protected areas, however, it is likely to be passively conserved in      many existing  protected areas in throughout its range but as its      conservation in these  sites is not actively monitored it may be subject      to population loss  over time from factors such as climate change. A monitoring programme should be implemented. Field margins should be adequately managed, in order to avoid overgrazing and herbicides spraying.

useAndTrade:
Lathyrus stenophyllus is a secondary wild relative of L. sativus L., the cultivated grass pea (Yunus and Jackson 1991, Sarker et al. 2001, Brink and Belay 2006), # L. cicera L. and L. odoratus L., and more remotely is a tertiary wild relative of L. ochrus (L.) DC. (Kupicha 1983).This species is likely to be grazed by wild and domesticated species in the pasture and agricultural margins.


taxonomicNotes:
Lathyrus sylvestris L. belongs to the tribe Fabeae and contains several subspecies native to Europe: Lathyrus sylvestris L. subsp. sylvestris, Lathyrus sylvestris L. subsp. angustifolius (Medik.) Rothm., Lathyrus sylvestris L. subsp. platyphyllos (Retz.) Vollm. and Lathyrus sylvestris L. subsp. pyrenaicus (Jord.) O. Bolòs & Vigo. It is a secondary wild relative of L. sativus L., the cultivated grass pea (Yunus and Jackson 1991, Sarker et al. 2001, Brink and Belay 2006),&# L. cicera L. and L. odoratus L., and more remotely is a tertiary wild relative of L. ochrus (L.) DC. (Kupicha 1983).

redListCategoryRationale:
European regional assessment: Least Concern (LC) EU 27 regional assessment: Least Concern (LC) Due to the widespread nature of this species, and no known threats, it is regionally assessed for Europe as Least Concern.

range:
L. sylvestris is native to the majority of European countries, as well as parts of Russia, the Caucasus, and northern Africa (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010). The International Legume Database   Information Service (2010)     records it as being present in Albania, Austria, Belarus, Belgium, Bulgaria, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Former Yugoslavia, France, Germany, Great Britain, Greece, Hungary, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Moldova, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Russia in Europe, Sicily, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland and Ukraine.In France it is widespread, occurs in the majority of departments. Not recorded in the northern departments of Paris and   Seine-Saint-Denis, the western departments of Indre and Charente, the southern departments of   Drôme and Vaucluse and Corsica (Association Tela Botanica 2010). In the  UK it is widespread across the southern half of England and throughout the whole of Wales (Preston et al. 2002). To the north of England and in Scotland the distribution becomes sparse and patchy with a number of occurrences recorded as alien (Preston et al. 2002). In Northern Ireland this species is only recorded in one locality and this is classified as alien (Preston et al. 2002).

population:
Lathyrus sylvestris is a widespread species, commont throughout its range. It is  found in several  habitats    which are not threatened and populations appear to be  stable.  In the UK, according to Preston et al. (2002) the distribution of this species is stable.

habitat:
In the UK this lowland species occurs in hedges, wood borders, scrub, on rough banks and sheltered sea cliffs (Preston et al. 2002). Alien occurrences often occur on roadsides and railway banks. Inland it is thought to prefer calcareous soils (Preston et al. 2002).

threats:
This is a relatively common species found in several distinct habitats, that appears to be under no major threat within the region and populations appear to be stable.

conservationAction:
The genus Lathyrus is listed in Annex I of the International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture as part of the grasspea gene pool.  L. sylvestris  is poorly represented in ex situ germplasm collections, with only one accession being held by the International Centre for Agricultural Research in the Dry Areas (ICARDA) in Syria (Sarker et al. 2001).    EURISCO reports 62 germplasm accessions held in European genebanks, 39 of which are reported to be of wild or weedy origin. Of the wild accessions, 38 originate from within Europe (EURISCO Catalogue 2010).  There is no active management in in situ  protected areas, however, it is likely to be passively conserved in      many existing  protected areas in throughout its range but as its      conservation in these  sites is not actively monitored it may be subject      to population loss  over time from factors such as climate change.Classified as Least Concern (LC) in Denmark (Den Danske Rødliste 2010).

useAndTrade:
L. sylvestris is a secondary wild relative of L. sativus L., the cultivated grass pea (Yunus and Jackson 1991, Sarker et al. 2001, Brink and Belay 2006), # L. cicera L. and L. odoratus L., and more remotely is a tertiary wild relative of L. ochrus (L.) DC. (Kupicha 1983).This species is likely to be grazed by wild and domesticated species in the pasture and agricultural margins.


taxonomicNotes:
Lathyrus tingitanus L. belongs to the family Fabaceae, subfamily Faboideae, and is a secondary wild relative of L. sativus L., the cultivated grass pea (Yunus and Jackson 1991, Sarker et al. 2001, Brink and Belay 2006),&# L. cicera L. and L. odoratus L., and more remotely is a tertiary wild relative of L. ochrus (L.) DC. (Kupicha 1983).

redListCategoryRationale:
European regional assessment: Least Concern (LC) EU 27 regional assessment: Least Concern (LC)Although Lathyrus tingitanus has a restricted population, it often found in large populations, it occurs in several protected areas,   and because it is unlikely to be declining fast enough to qualify for listing in a more threatened category it is assessed in Europe as Least Concern.

range:
L. tingitanus is native to parts of southern Europe and northern Africa, and has been naturalized in the Azores (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010). The International Legume Database   Information Service (2010)       records it as being present in the Azores,   Portugal,    Sardinia and   Spain; however, Silva et al. (2005) confirm that it is introduced in the Azores. Its origin in the Canary Islands is uncertain (Izquierdo et al. 2004) and it is introduced in Madeira (Borges et al. 2008). In France it is confined to the southern department of Var (Association Tela Botanica 2000-2010).

population:
It has a scattered distribution and it is rare and localised. It is found in several habitats which are not threatened and populations appear to be stable. It is very common in the Canary Islands, but believed to be Extinct in Madeira.

habitat:
It lives in scrublands, forests, on slopes, roadsides, riverbanks.

threats:
Grazing is a threat to this species in part of its range.

conservationAction:
The genus Lathyrus is listed in  Annex I of the International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food  and Agriculture as part of the grasspea gene pool.  L. tingitanus  is quite poorly represented in ex situ germplasm collections, with only 18 accessions being held by the International Centre for Agricultural Research in the Dry Areas (ICARDA) in Syria (Sarker et al. 2001).    EURISCO reports 82 germplasm accessions held in European genebanks, 33 of which are reported to be of wild or weedy origin. Of the wild accessions, 19 originate from within Europe (EURISCO Catalogue 2010).Although it occurs in protected areas, there is no active management, but it is likely to be passively conserved in      many existing  protected areas in throughout its range but as its      conservation in these  sites is not actively monitored it may be subject      to population loss  over time from factors such as climate change.

useAndTrade:
L. tingitanus is a secondary wild relative of L. sativus L., the cultivated grass pea (Yunus and Jackson 1991, Sarker et al. 2001, Brink and Belay 2006), # L. cicera L. and L. odoratus L., and more remotely is a tertiary wild relative of L. ochrus (L.) DC. (Kupicha 1983).This species is likely to be grazed by wild and domesticated species in the pasture and agricultural margins.


taxonomicNotes:
Lathyrus tuberosus L. belongs to the family Fabaceae, subfamily Faboideae, and is a secondary wild relative of L. sativus L., the cultivated grass pea (Yunus and Jackson 1991, Sarker et al. 2001, Brink and Belay 2006), L. cicera L. and L. odoratus L., and more remotely is a tertiary wild relative of L. ochrus (L.) DC. (Kupicha 1983).

redListCategoryRationale:
European regional assessment: Least Concern (LC) EU 27 regional assessment: Least Concern (LC)This is a widespread species, rather common throughout its range and found in several habitats, therefore it is regionally assessed for Europe as Least Concern.

range:
L. tuberosus is widely distributed across most of Europe and Asia (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010). The International Legume Database   Information Service (2010)      records it as being present in Albania, Austria, Belarus, Belgium, Bulgaria, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Estonia, Former Yugoslavia, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Moldova, Netherlands, Poland, Romania, Russia in Europe, Spain, Switzerland and Ukraine.In France this species is widespread and it occurs in the majority of departments. Not recorded in the western and southwestern departments of   Finistère, Morbihan,   Côtes d'Armor,   Ille-et-Vilaine, Manche, Charente, Haute-Vienne, Creuse, Gers and Tarn. Not recorded in Corsica (Association Tela Botanica 2010).

population:
This is a widespread species, common throughout its range, it is found in several habitats which are not threatened. Its population appears to be stable.

habitat:
This species is found in water meadows, grassy banks and fallow fields.

threats:
This is a relatively common species found in several grassy habitats, that appears to be under no major threat within the region.

conservationAction:
The genus Lathyrus is listed in Annex I of the International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture as part of the grasspea gene pool.  L. tuberosus is poorly represented in ex situ germplasm collections, with only four accessions being held by the International Centre for Agricultural Research in the Dry Areas (ICARDA) in Syria (Sarker et al. 2001).    EURISCO reports 38 germplasm accessions held in European genebanks, 23 of which are reported to be of wild or weedy origin. Of the wild accessions, 14 originate from within Europe. These 14 accessions originate from Czech Republic (seven), France (four), Hungary (one), Spain (one) and Sweden (one) (EURISCO Catalogue 2010).  Although it occurs in protected areas, there is no active management,  but it is likely to be passively conserved in      many existing   protected areas in throughout its range but as its      conservation in  these  sites is not actively monitored it may be subject      to  population loss  over time from factors such as climate change.Assessments by Moser et al. (2002) and Gärdenfors (2005) have found L. tuberosus to be Vulnerable (BGCI 2009).

useAndTrade:
L. tuberosus is a secondary wild relative of L. sativus L., the cultivated grass pea (Yunus and Jackson 1991, Sarker et al. 2001, Brink and Belay 2006), # L. cicera L. and L. odoratus L., and more remotely is a tertiary wild relative of L. ochrus (L.) DC. (Kupicha 1983).This species is likely to be grazed by wild and domesticated species in the pasture and agricultural margins.


taxonomicNotes:
Lathyrus undulatus  belongs to the family Fabaceae, subfamily Faboideae, and is a secondary wild relative of L. sativus, the cultivated grass pea (Yunus and Jackson 1991, Sarker et al. 2001, Brink and Belay 2006),&# L. cicera. and L. odoratus, and more remotely is a tertiary wild relative of L. ochrus (Kupicha 1983).&# It is closely related to L. rotundifolius&# Boiss. (Davis 1970).

redListCategoryRationale:
European regional assessment: Data Deficient (DD)EU 27 regional assessment: Not Evaluated (NE)The extent of occurrence (EOO) of Lathyrus undulatus is less than 100 km2 in the Ukraine and in Turkey is unknown, the species is found at only two location near Yalta and near Istanbul, both are under heavy threat from urbanisation and tourism development. The habitat quality and extent are therefore declining. The total number of mature individuals is unknown but in Ukraine it is estimated to be below 250 and each subpopulation holds less than 50 individuals. However due to the lack of knowledge about the size of the population in Turkey even though this species appears highly threatened in the Ukraine it must be assessed as Data Deficient (DD).It does not occur within the EU 27.

range:
L. undulatus is endemic to European and Asiatic Turkey (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010) and Ukraine, where it is present in Crimea only at the south slope of Nikitski Yaila (between Yalta and Nikita) in alpine meadows. The extent of occurrence (EOO) in Ukraine is potentially smaller than 100 km2 and in Turkey it is restricted to the Istanbul region.

population:
This is a very restricted species # in Europe, it is  found in one main habitat which is not specifically threatened. Its population appears to be  decreasing.In Ukraine, the population trend is unknown but it is believed to be decreasing and now populations are small with a few individuals only. In Ukraine, the number of mature individuals is suspected to be less than 250 and each subpopulation holds less than 50 individuals. The population trend in the Istanbul region of Turkey is unknown.

habitat:
The species is found in clearings in forests, hedges and roadsides (Davis 1970).

threats:
This species is likely to be grazed by wild and domesticated species in the pasture and agricultural margins. Yalta is a centre of tourism development. Urbanisation is the other main threat.

conservationAction:
No accessions of L. undulatus are held ex situ in genebanks (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010). No germplasm accessions are reported by EURISCO to be held in European genebanks (EURISCO Catalogue 2010).There is no active in situ management,  but it is likely to be passively conserved in      many existing   protected areas in throughout its range but as its      conservation in  these  sites is not actively monitored it may be subject      to  population loss  over time from factors such as climate change.

useAndTrade:
L. undulatus is a secondary wild relative of L. sativus, the cultivated grass pea (Yunus and Jackson 1991, Sarker et al. 2001, Brink and Belay 2006), # L. cicera and L. odoratus, and more remotely is a tertiary wild relative of L. ochrus (Kupicha 1983).


taxonomicNotes:
Lens ervoides belongs to the tribe Fabeae, and is a secondary wild relative of the cultivated lentil L. culinaris culinaris (Ferguson et al. 2000).

redListCategoryRationale:
European regional assessment: Least Concern (LC) EU 27 regional assessment: Least Concern (LC) Lens ervoides is a widespread species and there are no serious known threats, it is therefore classified as Least Concern.

range:
Lens ervoides has a broad range, from Spain to Ukraine, and south to Jordan, but it is most common on the coast of Turkey and the Adriatic coast of Former Yugoslavia. The distribution throughout Spain is fairly restricted. It is also found in Ethiopia and Uganda (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010).In France it occurs only in the two departments of Corsica (Association Tela Botanica 2010).

population:
Lens ervoides has a scattered distribution and it is localised, it is found in several habitats which are not threatened, populations appear to be stable.

habitat:
L. ervoides grows mainly on calcareous rock in shady or partially shady habitats, under a canopy of trees or amongst shrubs. It also occasionally grows in pine groves. However, in Ethiopia and Uganda it has been found to grow on basalt in open habitats amongst perennial grasses (Ferguson and Erskine 2001).

threats:
This is a relatively common species found in several distinct habitats, that appears to be under no major threat within the region (Ferguson et al. 2000). Overgrazing may be a problem in more exposed rocky location used for grazing.

conservationAction:
There are 134 accessions of L. ervoides held ex situ at National Bureau of Plant Genetic Resources in New Delhi, India, and 51 accessions are held at the Western Regional Plant Introduction Station in the USA. Many of these accessions are duplicated at the International Centre for Agricultural Researcg in the Dry Areas in Syria (Ferguson and Erskine 2001).    EURISCO reports 12 germplasm accessions held in European genebanks, four of which are reported to be of wild or weedy origin. Of the wild accessions, two originate from within Europe, one from Italy (stored in Genebank, Leibniz Institute of Plant Genetics and Crop Plant Research, Germany) and one from Spain (stored in Instituto Nacional de Investigación y Tecnología Agraria y Alimentaria - Centro de Recursos Fitogenéticos, Spain) (EURISCO Catalogue 2010).

useAndTrade:
L. ervoides is a potential gene donor to the cultivated lentil L. culinaris culinaris (USDA, ARS, National genetic Resources Program 2010).


taxonomicNotes:
Lens lamottei belongs to the tribe Fabeae and is a tertiary wild relative of the cultivated lentil L. culinaris culinaris (Ferguson et al. 2000).

redListCategoryRationale:
European regional assessment: Least Concern (LC) EU 27 regional  assessment: Least Concern (LC)Lens lamottei is a relatively restricted species, but has significant scattered populations  throughout its range, it is found in  several habitats, therefore it  regionally assessed for Europe as Least  Concern. Urbanisation could pose a threat to this species in the future.

range:
L. lamottei is native to France, Spain and Morocco (Ferguson et al. 2000). It also occurs in Portugal and Italy.In France it is confined to the two southeastern departments of   Bouches-du-Rhône and Var and the two departments of Corsica (Association Tela Botanica 2010).

population:
Lens lamottei has a fragmented scattered distribution and it is localised primarily along the coast, it is found in several habitats which are not threatened. Its population appears to be stable.

habitat:
L. lamottei is generally found in primary, ungrazed habitats away from competitors, as well as on abandoned terraces, plantations and ruin. It grows on shallow stony soils, originating from basalt, calcareous, or metamorphic rocks (Ferguson and Erskine 2001). Always in coastal areas up to 2,000 m.

threats:
This is a relatively fragmented species found in several distinct habitats, that appears to be under no major threat within the region (Ferguson et al. 2000). However in general grazing, urbanisation and changes in land use are threats to this species.

conservationAction:
The genus Lens is listed in Annex I of the International Treaty  on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture as part of the  lentil gene pool.Currently, L. lamottei is conserved primarily ex situ,  with the majority of stored germplasm belonging to the International  Centre for Agricultural Research in the Dry Areas (ICARDA) (Ferguson and Erskine 2001). However in  Europe accessions are only found in the Aegean Agricultural Research  Institute (Menemen, Turkey) and University of Reading (Reading, UK) gene  banks. There <u1:p style="background-color: white;"></u1:p>is a need to promote ex situ conservation for this species. Studies by Ferguson et al. (1998a and b) have shown that genetic variation within populations of wild Lens species is low, whereas between population variation is high, thus ex situ conservation is the best method when trying to conserve genetic diversity.    EURISCO reports five germplasm accessions held in European genebanks, all of which are reported to be of wild or weedy origin. Of the wild accessions, four originate from within Europe. These four accessions all originate from Spain, three are stored in Junta de Castilla-La Mancha - Centro de Investigación Agraria de Albaladejito, Spain and one is stored in Instituto Nacional de Investigación y Tecnología Agraria y Alimentaria - Centro de Recursos Fitogenéticos, also in Spain (EURISCO Catalogue 2010).   It occurs in protected areas. In situ the species is likely to be passively conserved in many  existing protected areas throughout its range but as its conservation  in these sites is not actively monitored it may be subject to population  loss over time from factors such as climate change.

useAndTrade:
L. lamottei is a secondary wild relative of L. culinaris culinaris, the cultivated lentil (Ferguson et al. 2000).This species is likely to be grazed by wild and domesticated species in the pasture and agricultural margins.


taxonomicNotes:
Lens nigricans belongs to the tribe Fabeae, and is a secondary wild relative of the cultivated lentil L. culinaris ssp. culinaris (Ferguson et al. 2000).

redListCategoryRationale:
European regional assessment: Least Concern (LC)    EU 27 regional assessment: Least Concern (LC)  This  is a relatively widespread species, but with scattered populations  throughout its range, it is found in  several habitats, therefore it  is  assessed for Europe as Least  Concern.

range:
L. nigricans is a Mediterranean species, primarily occurring in southern Europe. Its range extends from La Palma in the Canary Islands to the Crimean Peninsula and Georgia (Ferguson et al. 2000). It also grows sporadically on the Italian and French Alps, and is also found in Algeria and Morocco. In Portugal it is found in the centre, east and northeast of the country with very few known populations and in France it occurs within 11 departments in the south and southeast, Corsica and the departments of Gironde to the west (Association Tela Botanica 2010).

population:
Lens nigricans has a scattered distribution, it is found in several habitats which are not threatened. Its population appears to be stable.

habitat:
The species is found in partially shaded or open habitats, generally alongside other short stature annual legumes such as clovers and medics, on limestone, granite and basalt bedrock. # It also grows in man-made habitats, commonly on abandoned plantations and terraces, and terraced vineyards. It flowers in May (Ferguson et al. 2000).It grows in shallow soils, rocky places, dense woods on limestone, slate or sands. It is an annual plant.

threats:
This is a relatively fragmented species found in several distinct  habitats,   that appears to be under no major threat within the region and its  populations   appear to be stable (Ferguson et al. 2000). Grazing, urbanisation and changes in land use are threats to this species. In Portugal no threats are known.

conservationAction:
The genus Lens is listed in Annex I of the International Treaty   on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture as part of the   lentil gene pool.Currently, L. nigricans is conserved primarily ex situ,   with the majority of stored germplasm belonging to the International   Centre for Agricultural Research in the Dry Areas (ICARDA) (Ferguson and Erskine 2001). However in   Europe accessions are only found in the Aegean Agricultural Research   Institute (Menemen, Turkey) and University of Reading (Reading, UK) gene   banks. There <u1:p style="background-color: white;"></u1:p>is a need to promote ex situ conservation for this species. Studies by Ferguson et al. (1998a and b) have shown that genetic variation within populations of wild Lens species is low, whereas between population variation is high, thus ex situ conservation is the best method when trying to conserve genetic diversity.EURISCO reports 40 germplasm accessions held in European genebanks, 33 of which are reported to be of wild or weedy origin. Of the wild accessions, 30 originate from within Europe, 28 from Spain, one from Italy and one from Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia (EURISCO Catalogue 2010).   It occurs in protected areas. In situ  the species is likely to be passively conserved in many  existing  protected areas throughout its range but as its conservation  in these  sites is not actively monitored it may be subject to population  loss  over time from factors such as climate change.

useAndTrade:
L. nigricans  is a secondary wild relative of L. culinaris ssp. culinaris, the cultivated lentil (Ferguson et al. 2000), on a limited scale it is used as forage plant in its own right.This species is likely to be grazed by wild and domesticated species in the pasture and agricultural margins.


taxonomicNotes:
Lens odemenis belongs to the tribe Fabeae, and is a primary wild relative of the cultivated lentil L. culinaris ssp. culinaris (Ferguson et al. 2000).

redListCategoryRationale:
European regional assessment: Least Concern (LC)EU 27 regional assessment: Least Concern (LC)This species is considered as Least Concern, as the known populations seem to be stable and there is no severe indication of increasing threats.

range:
In Europe, L. odemensis is only native to Greece (Ferguson et al. 2000, USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010).

population:
Lens odemensis has a restricted distribution in Europe, however it is found in several habitats which are not threatened. Its population appears to be stable.

habitat:
L. odemensis is commonly found in herbaceous habitats, growing with other annual legumes such as vetches, clovers and medics. In Israel and Syria it has been observed growing on shallow soil and granite originating from bedrock. In western Turkey however, it is found growing in partially shaded habitats, mostly in pine groves, on calcareous bedrock, and in southern Turkey it is found growing on the gravel of basalt and metamorphic rocks (Ladizinsky 1993).

threats:
Urbanisation and increase in fires frequency and intensity are the main threats to this species.

conservationAction:
The genus Lens is listed in Annex I of the International Treaty    on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture as part of the    lentil gene pool.Currently, L. odemensis is conserved primarily ex situ, with the majority of stored germplasm belonging to the International Centre for Agricultural Research in the Dry Areas (ICARDA), with 57 accessions duplicated in the National Bureau of Plant Genetic Resources in New Delhi, India (Ferguson and Erskine 2001). Studies by Ferguson et al. (1998a, b) have shown that genetic variation within populations of wild Lens species is low, whereas between population variation is high, thus ex situ conservation is the best method when trying to conserve genetic diversity. Passport data is frequently incomplete within the ICARDA collection, and conservation priority should be afforded to collecting missions to certain regions of north Africa, and the Levant. Also, wild types with resistance to pea leaf weevil and broomrape would be particularly beneficial commercially (Ferguson and Erskine 2001). A monitoring programme should be implemented.    EURISCO reports only three germplasm accessions held in European genebanks, one of which is reported to be of wild or weedy origin. This wild accession does not originate from within Europe (EURISCO Catalogue 2010).  It occurs in protected areas. In situ  the species is likely to  be passively conserved in many  existing  protected areas throughout  its range but as its conservation  in these  sites is not actively  monitored it may be subject to population  loss  over time from factors  such as climate change.

useAndTrade:
L. odemenis is a close relative of the cultivated lentil L. culinaris ssp. culinaris and so is a potential gene donor.


taxonomicNotes:
Lens orientalis belongs to the tribe Fabeae, and is a primary wild relative of the cultivated lentil L. culinaris ssp. culinaris (Ferguson et al. 2000).

redListCategoryRationale:
European regional assessment: Least Concern (LC)EU 27 regional assessment: Least Concern (LC)This species is relatively widespread and locally abundant. The major threats are thought to be localized and not threatening the species as a whole. It is therefore considered as Least Concern.

range:
L. orientalis is found in parts of eastern and southeastern Europe, as well as throughout much of central and western Asia, and also in parts of the Indian subcontinent (Ferguson et al. 2000). It seems to also occur in Crete.

population:
#This species is locally common where it is found and its population appears to be stable.

habitat:
L. orientalis grows in partially shaded or open habitats on shallow, stony soils which originate from basalt, calcareous and metamorphic rocks. #It lives in primary undisturbed habitats, Quercus scrub, Pinus forest, disturbed steppe, vineyards and fallow fields. It flowers in April - May. It is commonly found growing with other annual legumes such as clover, Lathyrus, medic and vetches (Ferguson et al. 2000). In Turkey, it is commonly found at the edges of pine groves and cedar groves (Ladizinsky 1993). It is found in dry stony slopes and hillsides.

threats:
Increase in the intensity and frequency of fires are threatening the species. Tourist development and urbanisation are also impacting the species.

conservationAction:
The genus Lens is listed in Annex I of the International Treaty     on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture as part of the     lentil gene pool.Currently, L. orientalis is conserved primarily ex situ, with the majority of stored germplasm belonging to the International Centre for Agricultural Research in the Dry Areas (ICARDA), with 222 accessions duplicated in the National Bureau of Plant Genetic Resources, New Delhi, India (Ferguson and Erskine 2001). Studies by Ferguson et al. (1998a and b) have shown that genetic variation within populations of wild Lens species is low, whereas between population variation is high, thus ex situ conservation is the best method when trying to conserve genetic diversity. Passport data is frequently incomplete within the ICARDA collection, and conservation priority should be afforded to collecting missions to two main areas. Firstly, southern Syria, north and west Syria and the West Bank of the Palestinian Authority, and secondly, south Turkey and southeast Turkey. Also, wild types with resistance to pea leaf weevil and broomrape would be particularly beneficial commercially (Ferguson and Erskine 2001).     EURISCO reports 29 germplasm accessions held in European genebanks, 12 of which are reported to be of wild or weedy origin. Of the wild accessions, none originate from within Europe (EURISCO Catalogue 2010).  Further European material should be gathered for ex situ conservation. Survey of the distribution is required, as well as adaptation of the management plan of the protected areas where it is present.It occurs in protected areas. In situ  the species is likely to   be passively conserved in many  existing  protected areas throughout   its range but as its conservation  in these  sites is not actively   monitored it may be subject to population  loss  over time from factors   such as climate change.

useAndTrade:
L. orientalis is a close relative of the cultivated lentil L. culinaris ssp. culinaris and so a potential gene donor.

redListAssessors:
Kyratzis, A., Smekalova, T. & Maxted, N.


redListCategoryRationale:
Lotus callis-viridis is listed as Endangered because its area of occupancy is 7 km² but fluctuations have been identified, it is found at two locations and there are extreme fluctuations in the number of mature individuals. Grazing, landslides and droughts limit the expansion of this species.

range:
Lotus callis-viridis is endemic to the island of Gran Canaria, Canary Islands, Spain, where it grows from 100 to 575 m asl on the western part of the island, distributed into two locations: Andén Verde and Cantiles de Güí-Güí (Navarro et al. 2004). The area of occupancy has been reported to be 7 km² and to suffer from fluctuations.

population:
Total population size has been reported to be 26,046 individuals (Navarro et al. 2004). Extreme fluctuations in the number of mature individuals have been observed. The location Andén Verde holds 99% of the total population size.

habitat:
This plant grows in small paths and ledges of vertical basaltic cliffs on the western coast of Gran Canaria. It occurs within rupicolous communities or sometimes within slightly nitrophile herbaceous communities, such as Soncho-Aeonion, Frankenio ericifoliae-Astydametum latifoliae and Aeonio-Euphorbion canariensis (Navarro et al. 2004). Frequent accompanying species are Aeonium virgineum, Descurainia artemisiodes, Lycium intricatum, Sonchus brachylobus and Reichardia ligulata.It is a hermaphrodite species. This entomophilous plant produces flowers gradually from winter to spring. It presents high levels of propagation by cuttings and from seeds in nursery.

threats:
The most important threat to this species is grazing (Navarro et al. 2004). Other threats are occasional landslides and droughts which can cause fluctuations in its population size and distribution. Road improvement works have been as well described as a threat to the subpopulation of Andén Verde.

conservationAction:
Lotus callis-viridis is listed on Annex II of the Habitats Directive and under Appendix I of the Convention on the Conservation of European Wildlife and Natural Habitats (Bern Convention). It is included as species "de interés para los ecosistemas canarios" in the catalogue of protected species of the Canary Islands. It is listed as Endangered B2ac(ii,iv) on the Spanish Red List (Moreno 2008). The populations are included in the protected areas Parque Natural de Tamadaba (SCI) and Reserva Natural Especial de Güigüi (SCI). It is cultivated in the botanic garden Viera y Clavijo where there are also seeds stored in the germplasm bank.Population size fluctuations must be monitored and activities within its distribution range must be controlled.

redListAssessors:
Navarro, J., Naranjo Suárez, J. & Navarro Valdivielso, B.


taxonomicNotes:
Eight subspecies of Lotus corniculatus  are native to Europe: L. corniculatus ssp. alpicola, L. corniculatus ssp. alpinus, L. corniculatus ssp. carpetanus, L. corniculatus ssp. corniculatus, L. corniculatus ssp. derlotii, L. corniculatuss ssp. glacialis, L. corniculatus ssp. hirsutus, and L. corniculatus ssp. preslii (Euro+Med PlantBase 2006).

redListCategoryRationale:
European regional assessment: Least Concern (LC)EU 27 regional  assessment: Least Concern (LC)Lotus corniculatus is a common, widespread species and there appears to be no major threats. It is found in several habitats which are not threatened within its region, populations appear to be stable therefore, therefore it is assessed as Least Concern.

range:
Native to and widely distributed in northern, middle, east, southeastern and southwestern Europe, temperate Asia, the Indian subcontinent, northern Africa and northeast and east tropical Africa (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010). In France it is widespread, occurring in all departments throughout the country (Association Tela Botanica 2000–2010), while in the UK it is widespread throughout all areas of England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland (Preston et al. 2002) and in Ireland it is widespread across all areas of the country (Preston et al. 2002).

population:
This species is common and widespread throughout its range and its population appears to be stable. In the UK, according to Preston et al. (2002), this species’ distribution is stable.

habitat:
In the UK it occurs on grasslands, such as well-drained meadows, chalk and limestone downs, hill pastures, montane rock ledges and coastal cliff tops, shingle and sand dunes (Preston et al. 2002). It is only unable to grow on the most acidic and infertile soils (Preston et al. 2002).

threats:
This is a common species and there appears to be no major threats. It is found several habitats which are not threatened within its region.

conservationAction:
This species is classified as Least Concern (LC) in Denmark (Den Danske Rødliste 2010).    EURISCO reports 1,163 germplasm accessions held in European genebanks, 297 of which are reported to be of wild or weedy origin. Of the wild accessions, 213 originate from within Europe (EURISCO Catalogue 2010).

useAndTrade:
This species is cultivated for fodder. Wild populations may harbour important genetic diversity for crop improvement. Also used as a soil improver and is an important bee plant (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010).


redListCategoryRationale:
Lotus eremiticus is listed as Critically Endangered because its area of occupancy is only 1 km², total population size is six individuals, all included in a single location. The extent of its habitat and the number of mature individuals are declining due to predation by rabbits and lizards, and droughts. Extreme fluctuations in the number of mature individuals have been observed.

range:
This plant is endemic to the island of La Palma, Canary Islands, Spain (Martín Cáceres et al. 2004), where the only known population occurs on the coast of Garafia. Its area of occupancy is 1 km².

population:
The only known population so far counts six individuals (Martín Cáceres et al. 2004). The amount of fruits is lower than the number of produced flowers. Population size varies depending on rainfall in successive years. It is possible that the soil seed bank is viable for a long period of time as in years of prolonged drought specimens have disappeared and the population has reappeared afterwards under favourable conditions. The population trend has been inferred to be declining (Gobierno de Canarias 2004).

habitat:
This taxon is associated with scrublands in thermophile forest zones Mayteno-Juniperion canariensis, mixed with rupicolous vegetation Greenovio-Aeonietea. Accompanying species include Juniperus turbinata ssp. canariensis, Aeonium palmense, Erica arborea, Davallia canariensis, Rhamnus crenulata, Lavandula canariensis, Myrica faya, Cheirolophus sventenii, Adiantum reniforme and Paronychia canariensis.

threats:
The most important threat to the species is the presence of rabbits and lizards in its habitat, that pose great pressure on seedlings and adult individuals (Martín Cáceres et al. 2004). Low population size is a threat factor especially in successive years of low rainfall.

conservationAction:
This species is listed under Appendix I of the Convention on the Conservation of European Wildlife and Natural Habitats (Bern Convention). It is included as species "En peligro de extinción" in the national catalogue of threatened species and in the catalogue of protected species of the Canary Islands. It is classed as Critically Endangered B2ab(iii,v)c(iv); C2a(i); D on the Spanish Red List (Moreno 2008). The population is included in the protected area Reserva Natural Especial de Guelguén (SCI). The species is cultivated in the botanic gardens La Orotava and Viera y Clavijo. Seeds are stored in the germplasm bank of the environmental department of the government of the Canary Islands (Viceconsejería de Medio Ambiente del Gobierno de Canarias).


redListCategoryRationale:
Lotus kunkelii is listed as Critically Endangered because its area of occupancy is 2 km² and its total population size is 41 individuals, in a single location. A continuing decline in its distribution range and the extent and quality of its habitat has been observed due to recreational activities, infrastructure works, and landslides.

range:
This plant is endemic to the island of Gran Canaria, Canary Islands, Spain (Navarro et al. 2004). It grows between 10 and 30 m asl in one single location in Playa de Jinámar on the eastern coast of the island. Its area of occupancy has been estimated in 2 km². Regressive trends from the 60's have been reported for its distribution (Gobierno de Canarias 2004).

population:
Total population is 41 individuals. The species presents annual and interannual fluctuations in the number of individuals (Navarro et al. 2004). Seed production is low and only a few juveniles have been observed in the population. Historically, the species has suffered a significant decline. Decreasing population trends have been reported (Gobierno de Canarias 2004).

habitat:
This plant grows in sandy coastal hills and sandy clays facing northeast, under constant influence of sea spray. A secondary habitat are sandy valleys in the southwest. Frequent accompanying species are Astydamia latifolia, Chenoloides tomentosa, Limonium pectinatum, Polycarpaea nivea, Aizoon canariense and Launaea arborescens.It is a hermaphrodite species. This entomophilous plant produces flowers from winter to spring.

threats:
The only known location has been affected by works in the surrounding areas (Navarro et al. 2004). This location is as well affected by trampling due to the presence of tracks that go through it. Landslides as well as pollution emitted by a close electric plant, have been also reported as threats.

conservationAction:
Lotus kunkelii is listed as priority species on Annex II of the Habitats Directive and under Appendix I of the Convention on the Conservation of European Wildlife and Natural Habitats (Bern Convention). It is included as species "En peligro de extinción" in the national catalogue of threatened species and in the catalogue of protected species of the Canary Islands. It is listed as Critically Endangered B2ab(iii); D on the Spanish Red List (Moreno 2008). The species occurs in the protected area SCI Jinamar. Seeds are stored in the germplasm bank of the Jardín Botánico Viera y Clavijo where the species is also cultivated.


redListCategoryRationale:
Lotus maculatus is listed as Critically Endangered due to its highly restricted distribution, being found in one single location, with an area of occupancy (AOO) of 1 km². Negative trends have been identified for the quality of its habitat and its population size, which has been found to be lower than 50 individuals. Predation, grazing and other human-generated impacts on the species and its habitat have led to a critical situation for its conservation.

range:
Lotus maculatus is endemic to the island of Tenerife, the Canary Islands, Spain (Marrero Gómez and Mesa Coello 2004). It grows between 20 and 30 m asl on the northern part of the island. Its presence was reported in three subpopulations: Punta del Puertito (El Sauzal), Roque de Dentro and Roque de la Playa (Anaga). The latter population has been refound in 2007 (Mesa 2007), after being thought extinct (Bañares et al. 2004, Buord and Lesouëf 2006). Its AOO is 1 km².

population:
Its total population size has been reported to present a decreasing trend (Gobierno de Canarias 2004). In 1994, 49 individuals were counted; 10 individuals in 2003 (Marrero Gómez and Mesa Coello 2004) and 16 specimens in 2004. The presence of seedlings and juvenile individuals is very low.More recently, 35 individuals have been recorded, from which 28 were mature reproductive individuals (Mesa 2007). It seems that fluctuations in population size occur depending on the year.

habitat:
It grows in halophile shrublands under direct influence of the sea (Buord and Lesouëf 2006). Common accompanying species are Schizogyne sericea, Salsola divaricata, Limonium pectinatum, Astydamia latifolia, Frankenia ericifolia, Scilla haemorrhoidalis and Crithmum maritimum (Marrero Gómez and Mesa Coello 2004).

threats:
Main threats are trampling by fishermen and hikers, works in the area, collection, predation by rabbits and competition with nitrophile species, increased by the accumulation of seagull excrements (Gobierno de Canarias 2004, Marrero Gómez and Mesa Coello 2004). Grazing was the main threat affecting the species in the past, almost leading to its extinction, but it is reported to be eradicated in the only currently known location.

conservationAction:
This species is listed under Appendix I of the Convention on the Conservation of European Wildlife and Natural Habitats (Bern Convention). It is classed species "En peligro de extinción" in the national catalogue of  threatened species and in the catalogue for the Canary Islands. It is listed CR B2ab(iii,v); C2a(i); D in the Spanish Red List 2008 (Moreno 2008).The only known location occurs within the protected area Paisaje Protegido Costa de Acentejo (Marrero Gómez and Mesa Coello 2004). Seeds are stored in the germplasm bank Banco de Germoplasma del Servicio de Biodiversidad de la Viceconsejería de Medio Ambiente. Ex situ cultivation and micropropagation has been developed as well as population monitoring. Herbivorous species presence in the area is being controlled. Re-introduction works were developed, but were unsuccessful. Potential predators should be eradicated. Natural populations must be reinforced and transferred to more suitable areas if necessary. Illegal collection must be controlled and habitat restoration measures should be established. A species re-introduction plan should be implemented in Roque de Tierra if the absence of the taxon is completely confirmed.

useAndTrade:
It has been used in gardening because of its ornamental value.


taxonomicNotes:
Two subspecies of Lotus peducularis are native to Europe: L. peducularis ssp. peducularis and L. peducularis ssp. vestitus.

redListCategoryRationale:
European regional assessment: Least Concern (LC)EU 27 regional   assessment: Least Concern (LC)Lotus pedunculatus is very widespread in   Europe, its population appears to be stable and there are no major threats; therefore, it is assessed as Least Concern.

range:
L. pedunculatus is native to northern, middle, east, southeastern and southwestern Europe, and to northern Africa (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010). According to USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program (2010) it is also native to Madeira and the Canary Islands. However, although Borges et al. (2008) also record it as native to Madeira, according to ILDIS World Database of Legumes (2010) it is not native to Macaronesia and according to Izquierdo et al. (2004), it is not native to the Canary Islands. In France, Lotus pedunculatus is widespread, occurring in the majority of departments; however, it is not recorded in Paris or the three southeastern departments of   Rhône, Vaucluse and Alpes-Maritimes (Association Tela Botanica 2010). In the UK, it is widespread throughout the whole of England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland, although in the far north of Scotland its distribution becomes patchier (Preston et al. 2002). In Ireland, it is widespread in the south of the country but patchier in its distribution in the central and northern parts of the country (Preston et al. 2002).

population:
This species is common and widespread throughout its range and its population appears to be stable. In the UK and Ireland, according to Preston et al. (2002), the distribution of L. pedunculatus has remained unchanged since the intial British plant atlas (Perring and Walters 1962).

habitat:
In UK and Ireland L. pedunculatus is usually a lowland species which appears more frequently on acidic soils than calcareous soils  (Preston et al. 2002). It grows in rushy pastures, wet meadows, marshes, ditches, the margins of lakes, ponds, rivers, wet road verges and various other marshy places (Preston et al. 2002).

threats:
This is a common species and there appear to be no major threats. It is found several habitats which are not threatened within its region.

conservationAction:
L. pedunculatus var. pedunculatus and L. pedunculatus var. villosus are classified as Least Concern (LC) in Denmark (Den Danske Rødliste 2010).    EURISCO reports 134 germplasm accessions held in European genebanks, 21 of which are reported to be of wild or weedy origin. Of the wild accessions, 17 originate from within Europe. These 17 wild accessions originate from the following European countries: Bulgaria (one), Czech Republic (three), France (two), Germany (four), Poland (four) and Spain (three) (EURISCO Catalogue 2010).

useAndTrade:
Cultivated for fodder; wild populations may harbour important genetic diversity for crop improvement.


redListCategoryRationale:
Lotus pyranthus is classed as Critically Endangered because of its highly restricted and fragmented distribution. Decreasing trends have been observed in its area of occupancy, extent and quality of its habitat and number of mature individuals. The species has been re-introduced reaching an area of occupancy of 3 km2, but there is no evidence yet of the viability of these introduced subpopulations, so its area of occupancy is even lower and its natural population size is two individuals. Predation has led this species to a critical situation.

range:
Lotus pyranthus is endemic to the island of La Palma, the Canary Islands, Spain (González González et al. 2004), where it grows between 1,350 and 1,450 m asl, on the northeastern part of the island. It is distributed throughout three locations: Marcos y Cordero, Lomo de Cuervo y Cabecera del Barranco de Gallegos. Its area of occupancy is 3 km². Only the location of Lomo de Cuervo includes a subpopulation considered natural.

population:
Total population size was reported to be seven # individuals, five of these introduced (González González et al. 2004). The locations Lomo de Cuervo and Cabecera del Barranco de Gallego were reported to have one single individual each. No seedling or juvenile individual was found in the sites.Later, total population size has been reported to be 35-40 individuals, but these individuals have been introduced and they are not considered naturalised for there is no evidence of reproduction (Gobierno de Canarias 2004). Natural population size has been estimated in two individuals (Gobierno de Canarias 2006).

habitat:
This shrub grows within humid pine forest communities Loto hillebrandi-Pinetum canariensis, but appearing in open areas along with xerophytic and rupicolous species (González González et al. 2004). Frequent accompanying species are Pinus canariensis, Erica arborea, Myrica faya, Cistus symphytifolius, Teline stenopetala var. sericea, Bystropogon origanifolius, Echium webbi, Aeonium spathulatum, Rumex maderensis, Micromeria herpyllomorpha and Tuberaria guttata.

threats:
Main threats are predation by introduced herbivorous species such as rabbits and game species, and by grazing species such as goats (González González et al. 2004). Its poor reproductive strategy, fires and collection are also threats to the species.

conservationAction:
This species is listed under Appendix I of the Convention on the Conservation of European Wildlife and Natural Habitats (Bern Convention). It is included as species "En peligro de extinción" in the national catalogue of  threatened species of Spain and in the regional catalogue of protected species of the Canary  Islands. It is listed as CR B2ab(iii)c(iv); C2a(i) in the Spanish Red List (Moreno 2008).The taxon is included in the protected area Parque Natural de Las Nieves (SCI). Re-introduction and ex situ cultivation have been carried out. Fences have been established. Seeds are stored in the germplasm bank Banco de Germoplasma de la Viceconsejería de Medio Ambiente del Gobierno de Canarias.Research about the reproductive biology of the species should be developed. Grazing should be completely eradicated in its distribution range. More seeds must be collected and stored and population reinforcement measures must be kept in place.

useAndTrade:
This species is used in gardening because of its ornamental value.

redListAssessors:
González González, R., Pérez de Paz, P.L., León Arencibia, M.C. & Reyes Betancort, J.A.


taxonomicNotes:
Lupinus albus L. is an Old World lupin species, being most closely related to L. micranthus Guss. The species L. albus L. contains within its primary gene pool L. albus L. var. albus (cultivated white lupin), and the the wild form L. albus L. var. graecus (Singh et al. 2007), both of which are native to Europe.

redListCategoryRationale:
European regional assessment: Least Concern (LC) EU 27 regional assessment: Least Concern (LC)Lupinus albus is listed as Least Concern as it is a widespread species all across its European range. However increasing human populations and overgrazing of farm animals are causing a decline in viable habitats; these threats need to be investigated and possible conservation actions need to be explored.

range:
L. albus in its uncultivated form is found in southeastern Europe and western Asia (Turkey). It is widely cultivated everywhere (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010). L. albus var. graecus is naturally distributed in the southern Balkans, and possibly northeast Greece, southern Italy and western Turkey. L. albus var. albus is naturally more widespread, being found across the northern Mediterranean basin, the Azores (introduced), the Canary Islands (introduced), northern Africa, the Nile Valley, Kenya, and Ethiopia (Clements et al. 2005). In Italy a subspecies is recognised—L. albus ssp. graecus (syn. L. graecus).

population:
The exact population size is unknown, but the species is considered relatively common throughout its range (Kurlovich and Stankevich 2002).

habitat:
L. albus is a relatively short annual (up to 120 cm), flowering between May and June (Duke 1981). It is generally found in meadows, pastures, and grassy slopes on mildly acidic or neutral soils with a light to medium texture (Kurlovich and Stankevich 2002). In certain instances it has been found to grow on alkaline soils, for example in Corsica, Egypt, Malta, Sicily, and the Verde Islands (Clements et al. 2005). It can grow at altitudes from sea level to 740 m (FAO 2010). On average it can tolerate annual precipitation of 840 mm, a mean temperature of 12.7ºC and a soil pH between 4.8 and 8.2 (Duke 1981).  #

threats:
L. albus, as well as all species of Lupinus in the Mediterranean, are threatened by overgrazing and increasing human population pressure (Cowling 2001), however L. albus is a common species and not specifically threatened.

conservationAction:
Despite ex situ collections of L. albus being relatively healthy, much of the germplasm is duplicated on account of seed exchanges between various institutions. Due to a decline in traditional agricultural practices, populations of L. albus var. albus are now in decline in certain areas (Cowling 2001). Lupinus species have only been fully domesticated for around 60 years, and because of this many species, including L. albus var. albus, are susceptable to diseases and environmental stresses. Therefore conservation priority needs to be given to studying and collecting L. albus specimens to discover any types that are better adapted to their environment than domesticated species. Specifically for L. albus, types which are cold-tolerant and adapted to alkaline soils would be particularly beneficial to domesticated varieties (Cowling 2001).    EURISCO reports 2,715 germplasm accessions held in European genebanks, 41 of which are reported to be of wild or weedy origin. Of the wild accessions, 40 originate from within Europe: 24 of these originate from Greece, five from Portugal, one from Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia and 10 from Spain (EURISCO Catalogue 2010).  In Italy is on the Red List  as L. graecus (species level) and it is considered in one region as Vulnerable, in one region as Low Risk, and in two region as Data Deficient.

useAndTrade:
It is cultivated throughout the Mediterreanean region and in areas of the world with a Mediterranean climate (Kurlovich and Stankevich, 2002). Wild types of L. albus could be potential gene donors to cultivated varieties of L. albus. Specifically, wild types which are adapted to alkaline soils with high bicarbonate content, cold tolerant, anthracnose resistant, and resistant to fusarium wilt disease are all of particular interest commercially (Cowling 2001).

redListAssessors:
Korpelainen, H., Holubec, V., Asdal, Å., Magos Brehm, J., Labokas, J. & Vögel, R.


taxonomicNotes:
Lupinus angustifolius L. is an Old World lupin species, and contains within its primary gene pool two subspecies native to Europe: L. angustifolius L. ssp. angustifolius (cultivated blue lupin), and L. angustifolius L. ssp. reticulatus (Desv.) Arcang. (Singh et al. 2007). A significantly more dissected classification of 14 varieties is provided by Kurlovich and Stankevich (2002).

redListCategoryRationale:
European regional assessment: Least Concern (LC) EU 27 regional assessment: Least Concern (LC)Lupinus angustifolius is assessed as  Least Concern due to it being widespread all across its European range. However increasing human populations and overgrazing of farm animals are  causing a decline in viable habitats; these threats need to be  investigated and possible conservation actions need to be explored.

range:
L. angustifolius is found growing in meadows, among rock and amongst bushes, roadsides and sandy seashore, throughout most of southern Europe, as well as in northern Africa and western Asia, and is widely cultivated (Kurlovich and Stankevich 2002, USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010).It is present all over in Spain and Portugal. In Italy it only occurs in the south. In France it occurs in the central, western and southern departments and is largely absent from the departments to the north and east of the country (Association Tela Botanica 2010).

population:
A study by van der Maarel and van der Maarel-Versluys (1996) showed that the population of L. angustifolius ssp. reticulatus in southwest Europe is declining, however, in general the species is so widespread it cannot be considered to be declining overall.

habitat:
L. angustifolius is a short annual, growing between 20 and 150 cm tall, and flowers between April and June (Duke 1981). It is generally found on light to medium textured non-calcareous (Clements et al. 2005). It grows at altitudes from sea level to 1,500 m, and is found on roadsides, degraded shrubland, abandoned fields and shrub steppe (de Hond et al. 2005), as well as  in meadows, among rock and amongst bushes, roadsides and sandy  seashore and is widely cultivated in regions with a Mediterranean climate (Kulovich and  Stankevich 2002). It can tolerate temperatures as low as -6ºC, but grows best between 5.6  ºC and 26.2ºC. It can tolerate an average annual rainfall of 840 mm and an average soil pH between 4.9 and 8.2 (Duke 1981).

threats:
L. angustifolius, as well as all species of Lupinus in the Mediterranean, are threatened by overgrazing and increasing human population pressure (Cowling 2001), however L. angustifolius is a common species and not specifically threatened.

conservationAction:
A large amount of L. angustifolius germplasm is conserved in ex situ, but many accessions have been duplicated due to seed exchange between various institutions (Cowling 2001). # Further collection expeditions need to be conducted to increase the genetic base, specifically to find types of L. angustifolius which are resistant to anthracnose and fusarium wilt disease (Cowling 2001).Naturally occurs in protected areas.In France this species is protected in the 'Centre' region of France (Association Tela Botanica 2010).    EURISCO reports 1,614 germplasm accessions held in European genebanks, 675 of which are reported to be of wild or weedy origin. Of the wild accessions, 661 originate from within Europe: 512 of these originate from Spain, 70 from Greece, 67 from Portugal and three from Italy (EURISCO Catalogue 2010).

useAndTrade:
Wild types of L. angustifolius could be potential gene donors to cultivated varieties of L. angustifolius. Specifically, wild types which are anthracnose resistant and resistant to fusarium wilt disease are all of particular interest commercially (Cowling 2001). It is poisonous, especially to sheep, but if alkaloid free cultivars are grown it can be used for grazing, or for soil improvement (Duke 1981).


taxonomicNotes:
Lupinus hispanicus Boiss. & Reut. is an Old World lupin species, and belongs to the secondary gene pool of cultivated lupin species L. luteus L., and the tertiary gene pool of L. albus L., which is also widely cultivated (Singh et al. 2007). Within its primary gene pool it contains two subspecies which are native to Europe: L. hispanicus ssp. bicolor (Merino) Gladst. and L. hispanicus Boiss. & Reut. ssp. hispanicus.

redListCategoryRationale:
European regional assessment: Least Concern (LC) EU 27 regional assessment: Least Concern (LC)    Listed as Least Concern in view of its wide distribution, presumed large population, and because it is unlikely to be declining fast enough to qualify for listing in a more threatened category.

range:
L. hispanicus is endemic to Spain and Portugal (ILDIS World Database of Legumes 2010).

population:
It is common in suitable habitat, moderately and highly acidic or sandy soils, on granite and shaly mountainsides (Kurlovich and Stankevich 2002).

habitat:
L. hispanicus generally grows on silty to sandy soils between pH 5 and 6.5. It grows at altitudes between 600 m and 1,600 m (Iriondo et al. 2005). It is found in arable land, vineyards, shrubs, and roadsides, highly acidic or sandy soils, on granite and shaly mountainsides (Kurlovich and Stankevich 2002).

threats:
The major threats to L. hispanicus are agricultural abandonment, as well as other changes in agricultural practices, and human intervention, such as increased urbanisation (Iriondo et al. 2005), but overall the species is still common so it is not seriously threatened.

conservationAction:
There are 48 accessions of L. hispanicus  held ex situ in the Regional Plant Introduction Station in Washington, USA (USDA, ARS,  National Genetic Resources Program 2010). A large amount of #germplasm is also conserved ex situ in both the European and Australian seed banks. Furthermore, half of the known populations in Spain are conserved in situ in the Natura Network of Sites of Community Interest (Iriondo et al. 2005). The species occurs in protected areas.    EURISCO reports 284 germplasm accessions held in European genebanks, 110 of which are reported to be of wild or weedy origin. All of the wild accessions originate from within Europe: nine from Portugal and 101 from Spain (EURISCO Catalogue 2010).

useAndTrade:
L. hispanicus is a potential gene donor for both yellow lupin, L. luteus, and white lupin L. albus.


taxonomicNotes:
Lupinus luteus L. belongs to the secondary gene pool of L. angustifolius L., the cultivated species commonly known as blue lupin (Singh et al. 2007).

redListCategoryRationale:
European regional assessment: Least Concern (LC) EU 27 regional assessment: Least Concern (LC)Lupinus luteus survives in disturbed areas and experiences a widespread and common distribution across its European range; it is therefore assessed as Least Concern.

range:
L. luteus is native to France, Italy, Portugal and Spain, as well as northern Africa and western Asia. It is also cultivated in northern Europe and the Russian Federation (Kurlovich and Stankevich 2002) and many countries worldwide (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010).In France it is confined to the northern departments of Seine-Maritime, Sarthe and Bas-Rhin, the southern departments of Aveyron, Tarn and   Pyrénées-Atlantiques and Corsica (Association Tela Botanica 2010).

population:
This is a common species, particularly in Spain, Portugal and Sicily. Its population appears to be stable.

habitat:
L. luteus, in its wild form, is a relatively small (25-80 cm) annual which flowers between March and July (Duke 1981). It commonly grows on sandy or volcanic, acidic soils (Kurlovich and Stankevich 2002, Clements et al. 2005), grows best in high rainfall areas and can tolerate temporary waterlogging. It is highly susceptible to iron and manganese deficiencies when growing on neutral of calcareous soils. It can tolerate a mean annual temperature of 13ºC, an average precipitation of 850 mm, and soil pH between 4.5 and 8.2 (Duke 1981).In the Iberian Peninsula, it is found in degraded scrub lands, abandoned fields, road sides, on neutral or decarbonated and acidic soils, pH 5-7 and sandy loam soils. It occurs from sea level to 1,100 m.

threats:
L. luteus, along with all species of Lupinus in the Mediterranean, are threatened by overgrazing and increasing human population pressure (Cowling 2001), however it is a common species and not specifically threatened. It appears able to withstand human disturbance as evident by its habitat types where it is found (Kurlovich and Stankevich 2002) .

conservationAction:
A substantial amount of L. luteus germplasm is conserved in ex situ, but seed exchanges between institutions has resulted in many accessions being duplicated (Cowling 2001). # Further collection expeditions need to be conducted to find types of L. luteus which are resistant to anthracnose and fusarium wilt disease (Cowling 2001).    EURISCO reports 2002 germplasm accessions held in European genebanks, 254 of which are reported to be of wild or weedy origin. Of the wild accessions, 251 originate from within Europe: one from Greece, one from Netherlands, 124 from Portugal and 125 from Spain (EURISCO Catalogue 2010).

useAndTrade:
L. luteus has poisonous seeds, but alkaloid free varieties can be grown for use as forage and fodder crops (Duke 1981). It is also a potential gene donor for both yellow lupin, L. luteus, and white lupin L. albus. It is also used as a  green manure for crops (cultivated).


taxonomicNotes:
Lupinus micranthus Guss. is an Old World lupin species, and belongs to the secondary gene pool of cultivated white lupin, L. albus L. (Singh et al. 2007).

redListCategoryRationale:
European regional assessment: Least Concern (LC) EU 27 regional assessment: Least Concern (LC)Listed as Least Concern in view of its wide distribution, presumed overall large population, and because it is unlikely to be declining fast enough to qualify for listing in a more threatened category.   #

range:
L. micranthus is native to much of southern Europe, as well as western Asia and north Africa (Kurlovich and Stankevich 2002, USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010).In France, this taxon (recorded as Lupinus gussoneanus J. Agardh) is found in Corsica and the five departments of   Pyrénées Orientales, Aude,   Hérault,   Bouches-du-Rhône and Var in the south and southeast of the country (Association Tela Botanica 2010). #

population:
L. micranthus is common across much of southern Europe (Kurlovich and Stankevich 2002), although it appears to be rare in Greece and only locally common in Cyprus. There are scattered subpopulations in the southwest of the Iberian Peninsula. In Italy the population is fragmented.

habitat:
L. micranthus generally grows on sandy loams, but has also been found on coarse sands and heavier, calcareous soils (Kurlovich and Stankevich 2002). It is mostly found on mildly acidic to alkaline soils (Clements et al. 2005). Also in scrublands, roadsides.

threats:
L. micranthus, as well as all species of Lupinus in the Mediterranean, are threatened by overgrazing and increasing human population pressure (Cowling 2001), however it is a common species and not specifically threatened, it  appears able to withstand human disturbance as evident by its habitat  types where it is found (Kurlovich and Stankevich 2002).

conservationAction:
Only one accession of L. micranthus is held ex situ at the Regional Plant Introduction Station in Washington, USA (USDA, ARS,  National Genetic Resources Program 2010). It occurs in protected areas.    EURISCO reports 50 germplasm accessions held in European genebanks, 23 of which are reported to be of wild or weedy origin. All of the wild accessions originate from within Europe. Seven of these wild accessions originate from Portugal and 16 from Spain. All of these wild accessions are stored in either Genebank, Leibniz Institute of Plant Genetics and Crop Plant Research, Germany (11) or Instituto Nacional de Investigación y Tecnología Agraria y Alimentaria - Centro de Recursos Fitogenéticos, Spain (12) (EURISCO Catalogue 2010).

useAndTrade:
L. micranthus is a potential gene donor to the widely cultivated species L. albus, white lupin, as well as yellow lupin, L. luteus.


taxonomicNotes:
Medicago aculeata Willd. belongs to the section Spirocarpos, subsection Pachyspireae, and is a secondary wild relative of the cultivated crop barrel clover, M. truncatula Gaertn. (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010). However, in Portugal and Spain, this species is a synonym of M. polymorpha L.According to Al-Atawneh et al. (2009) this species is also not accepted as a valid species.

redListCategoryRationale:
European regional assessment: Least Concern (LC) EU 27 regional assessment: Least Concern (LC)Based on the wide distribution and lack of threats, this species is assessed as Least Concern.

range:
M. aculeata is distributed throughout southern Europe, parts of western Asia and north Africa (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010). Found in the Middle East.In Portugal and Spain # (as M. polymorpha) it is widespread. In Italy it occurs in the southwest.In France the taxon (recognised here as a synonym of Medicago doliata) is confined to Corsica and the south and southeastern departments of   Pyrénées Orientales, Aude,   Hérault,   Bouches-du-Rhône, Var and Alpes-Maritimes (Association Tela Botanica 2010).

population:
This is a common species and its population appears to be stable.

habitat:
M. aculeata grows on sandy and chalky soils in fields or in field margins (Al-Atawneh et al. 2009).It is found in nitrophilous grasslands, in all types of substrates.

conservationAction:
Taxonomic issues with M. polymorpha need to be solved for Spain and Portugal.    EURISCO reports 10 germplasm accessions held in European genebanks, four of which are reported to be of wild or weedy origin. Of the wild accessions, three originate from France and are stored in Réseau Plantes fourragères et à gazon, France (EURISCO Catalogue 2010).

useAndTrade:
M. aculeata is a potential gene donor for the cultivated crop barrel clover, M. truncatula, as well as for alfalfa, M. sativa ssp. sativa.


taxonomicNotes:
Medicago arabica (L.) Huds. belongs to the section Spirocarpos, subsection Leptospireae, and is a secondary wild relative of the cultivated crop M. polymorpha L., commonly known as bur medic (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010).

redListCategoryRationale:
European regional assessment: Least Concern (LC)EU 27 regional assessment: Least Concern (LC)  Despite one study suggesting this species is Vulnerable, Medicago arabica is a common species and there appears to be no major threats. It is found in several habitats which are not threatened within Europe and its population appears to be stable; therefore, it is regionally assessed in Europe as Least Concern.

range:
M. arabica is native to much of Europe, western Asia and northern Africa (Al-Atawneh et al. 2009). It has been widely naturalised in Africa, Australia, Europe, and the Americas (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010).In France it is widespread, occurs in all departments with the exceptions of   Hauts-de-Seine to the north and   Territoire de Belfort in the east in which this species is not recorded (Association Tela Botanica 2010).  In the UK it is widespread in the southern half of England with a patchy, coastal distribution within Wales (Preston et al. 2002). Alien occurrences have been recorded in northern England, Scotland and in one locality in Northern Ireland (Preston et al. 2002).

population:
This is a common species and there appears to be no major threats. It is found in several habitats which are not threatened within its distribution, and its population appears to be stable (Al-Atawneh et al. 2009).In the UK, according to Preston et al. (2002), this species has shown an increase in its distribution since the previous ‘Atlas’ (Perring and Walters 1962) particularly in south England and the Midlands. It thrives particularly in inland areas although the reasons for this are as yet unknown (Preston et al. 2002).

habitat:
M. arabica is a winter annual, flowering in the summer and the autumn (Duke 1981), and is found growing in a wide range of habitats, including grasslands and meadows, as well as on roadsides next to agricultural land, stream sides and the edges of woodlands (Al-Atawneh et al. 2009). It can grow in almost every type of soil, but grows best in loams. It can tolerate soil pH between 5.6 and 8.2, a mean annual temperature of 14.5ºC, and mean rainfall of 770 mm (Duke 1981).  In the UK this lowland species occurs in grassy areas with a preference for sandy and gravelly soils, often found in coastal areas (Preston et al. 2002).

threats:
This is a common species and there appears to be no major threats. It is found several habitats which are not threatened within its region (Al-Atawneh et al. 2009).

conservationAction:
M. arabica is a widespread species, with a large number of accessions available in gene banks (Prosperi et al. 2001).An assessment by Moser et al. (2002) found M. arabica to be Vulnerable (BGCI 2009).    There are  83 germplasm accessions held in European genebanks, 58 of which are reported to be of wild or weedy origin. Of the wild accessions, 47 originate from within Europe (EURISCO Catalogue 2010).

useAndTrade:
M. arabica is a potential gene donor for the cultivated crop M. polymorpha L., commonly known as bur medic, as well as for cultivated alfalfa, M. sativa ssp. sativa.


taxonomicNotes:
Medicago arborea L. belongs to the section Dendrotelis, and contains two subspecies native to Europe, Medicago arborea L. ssp. arborea and Medicago arborea L. ssp. citrina (Font Quer) O. Bolòs & Vigo. It is a tertiary wild relative of cultivated alfalfa, M. sativa L. ssp. sativa (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010).

redListCategoryRationale:
European regional assessment: Least Concern (LC) EU 27 regional assessment: Least Concern (LC) Medicago arborea has a relatively restricted distribution but there appears to be no major threats and its population is stable.

range:
M. arborea is only native to southeastern Europe and Turkey in Asia (Al-Atawneh et al. 2009), but has been naturalised in Africa, Australasia, Europe and South America (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010). It seems likely that it would exist in Turkey in Europe but we have no records for its presence there.

population:
This species has a relatively restricted distribution. Its population appears to be stable (Al-Atawneh et al. 2009).

habitat:
M. arborea grows on dry soils, genrally on rocky hillsides (Al-Atawneh et al. 2009).

threats:
There  appears to be no major  threats. It is  found in several habitats which are not threatened within  its  distribution (Al-Atawneh et al. 2009). It is possibly threatened due to habitat erosion, and grows in regions threatened by climate change (Prosperi et al. 2001).

conservationAction:
M. arborea   has few accessions available in gene banks.     EURISCO reports 27 germplasm accessions held in European genebanks, 12 of which are reported to be of wild or weedy origin. Of the wild accessions, five originate from within Europe: from France (one), Greece (two), Italy (one) and Spain (one) (EURISCO Catalogue 2010).

useAndTrade:
M. arborea is a potential gene donor for cultivated alfalfa (M. sativa ssp. sativa).


taxonomicNotes:
Medicago blancheana Boiss. belongs to the section Spirocarpos, subsection Rotatae, and is a secondary wild relative of the cultivated crop M. scutellata (L.) Mill., commonly known as snail medic, and cultivated alfalfa, M. sativa L. ssp. sativa (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010).

redListCategoryRationale:
European regional assessment: Least Concern (LC)EU 27 regional assessment: Least Concern (LC)Medicago blancheana is relatively widespread and locally abundant. It is not facing major threats. It is therefore considered as Least Concern.

range:
M. blancheana is native to Cyprus (Troodos and Kyrenia areas) and the East Aegean Islands, as well as parts of western Asia (Al-Atawneh et al. 2009), but has been naturalised throughout parts of southern Europe (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010).

population:
This is a common species and its population appears to be stable (Al-Atawneh et al. 2009).

habitat:
M. blancheana grows in a wide range of habitats, being found on limestone rocks, dry meadows, pinewoods, grasslands, and cultivated and fallow fields, where it grows as a weed. It favours heavy red clay soils (Al-Atawneh et al. 2009). It flowers from March to May.

threats:
There appears to be no major threats within Europe. It is  found in several habitats which are not threatened within its  distribution (Al-Atawneh et al. 2009). It is possibly threatened due to habitat erosion, and grows in regions threatened by climate change (Prosperi et al. 2001).

conservationAction:
M. blancheana has 21 accessions available in gene banks. Further material should be collected for ex-situ conservation. It occurs in protected areas.    There are 17 germplasm accessions held in European genebanks, nine of which are reported to be of wild or weedy origin. All of these wild accessions originate from within Europe: eight from Cyprus (stored in Junta de Extremadura, Servicio de Investigación y Desarrollo Tecnológico, Finca la Orden, Spain) and one from Ukraine (stored in Ustymivka Experimental Station of Plant Production, Ukraine) (EURISCO Catalogue 2010).

useAndTrade:
M. blancheana is a potential gene donor for the cultivated crop snail medic, M. scutellata, as well as for cultivated alfalfa, M. sativa L. ssp. sativa.


taxonomicNotes:
Medicago bondevii Kouharov belongs to the section Spirocarpos, and the subsection Pachyspireae and is a secondary wild relative of the cultivated barrel medic (M. truncatula), and a tertiary wild relative of alfalfa (M. sativa) (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010).

redListCategoryRationale:
Medicago bondevii is relatively widespread and abundant, even though its distribution is restricted. The threats it is facing in some part of its range are not affecting the survival of the whole species. It is therefore considered as Least Concern.

range:
M. bondevii is endemic to Bulgaria, and populations are known to exist in the Kresna gorge (Struma River), the eastern Rhodopes, and the Thracian plain (Nikolov et al. 1994).

population:
This species is fairly common within its restricted range. Its population is considered stable.

habitat:
M. bondevii grows in hot and dry areas, in oak forests, grasslands, and bushlands. It grows on eroded forest soils and chalky rock substrates (Nikolov et al. 1994).

threats:
Generally changes in the land-use (urbanisation, agriculture intensification, etc.) are affecting the Thracian plain.

conservationAction:
No germplasm accessions are reported by EURISCO to be held in European genebanks (EURISCO Catalogue 2010). Material should be gathered for ex situ conservation. A monitoring programme should be implemented.

useAndTrade:
M. bondevii is a potential gene donor for cultivated barrel medic (M. truncatula), and alfalfa (M. sativa ssp. sativa).


taxonomicNotes:
Medicago cancellata M. Bieb. is a tertiary wild relative of cultivated alfalfa M. sativa L. ssp. sativa (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010).

redListCategoryRationale:
European regional assessment: Near Threatened (NT) EU 27 regional assessment: Not Evaluated (NE)  The area of occupancy (AOO) is below 2,000 km2 and the species is found at less than 10 locations. There is a suspected habitat decline due to urbanisation and agricultural intensification. However, a potential rescue effect from the Caucasus populations needs to be taken into account. The species is therefore downgraded from Vulnerable B2ab(iii) to Near Threatened.  It does not occur within the EU 27.

range:
M. cancellata is endemic to Russia (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010). There it is restricted to southeast Russia, present in the lower Don and lower Volga River basins near Stavropol. The locations in the European part are less than 10. The area of occupancy (AOO) is smaller than 2,000 km2.

population:
This species is very rare and occurs in isolated patches. The populations are suspected to be slowly declining.

habitat:
M. cancellata grows in steppe and semi-desert environments on infertile soils (Al-Atawneh et al. 2009). It is found on raised ground and occurs on open rocky slopes in association with sandy soils (Fedorov 1987).

threats:
Urbanisation and agricultural intensification are the main threats to this species.

conservationAction:
M. cancellata   has few accessions available in gene banks and is rare in the wild (Prosperi et al. 2001).    EURISCO reports only three germplasm accessions held in European genebanks, one of which is reported to be of wild or weedy origin. This wild accession does not originate from within Europe (EURISCO Catalogue 2010).  Included in Red Data Book of the Russian Federation as a rare species, classed as Vulnerable on the 1997 IUCN Red List of Threatened Plants. Included in the regional Red Lists of Bashkortostan, Stavropolski, Volgogradskaya, and Orenburgskaya regions (Red Data Book Laboratory 2005).

useAndTrade:
M. cancellata is a tertiary wild relative and potential gene donor for cultivated alfalfa, M. sativa ssp. sativa.


taxonomicNotes:
Medicago carica (Hub.-Mor.) E. Small belongs to section Buceras, subsection Erectae, and is a tertiary wild relative of cultivated alfalfa, M. sativa L. ssp. sativa (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010).

redListCategoryRationale:
European regional assessment: Data Deficient (DD)EU 27 regional assessment: Data Deficient (DD)The exact distribution, as well as the population size and trend, are unknown. The species is therefore classified as Data Deficient.

range:
M. carica is endemic to Turkey (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010) and Greece.

population:
This is a common species within its restricted range and its population characterisation is unknown (Al-Atawneh et al. 2009).

habitat:
M. carica favours rocky slopes, scree, scrub and maquis shrublands (Al-Atawneh et al. 2009).

threats:
There appears to be no major threats. It is found in several habitats which are not threatened within its distribution. However increase in fires frequency and intensity is likely to have a negative impact on part of the range of this species.

conservationAction:
No accessions of M. carica are held ex situ in genebanks (USDA, ARS,  National Genetic Resources Program 2010). No germplasm accessions are reported by EURISCO to be held in European genebanks (EURISCO Catalogue 2010). Material should be gathered for ex situ conservation. More research is needed on the population trends and the distribution. A monitoring programme should be implemented.

useAndTrade:
M. carica is a potential gene donor for cultivated alfalfa, M. sativa ssp. sativa.


taxonomicNotes:
Medicago carstiensis Jacq. belongs to the section Carstienses, and is a tertiary wild relative of cultivated alfalfa, M. sativa L. ssp. sativa.&# It has one subspecies native to Europe: Medicago carstiensis Jacq. ssp. belasicae Kozuharov (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010).

redListCategoryRationale:
European regional assessment: Least  Concern (LC)EU 27 regional assessment: Least  Concern (LC)Medicago carstiensis is relatively  widespread and abundant, even though its distribution is restricted to central southern Europe.  The threats it is facing in some part of its range are not affecting the  survival of the whole species. It is therefore considered as Least  Concern.

range:
M. carstiensis is native to central and southeastern Europe (Al-Atawneh et al. 2009, USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010).

population:
M. carstiensis is fairly rare in the wild (Prosperi et al. 2001), but it is also found over a relatievly large area so it is unlikely to be significantly threatened throughout its range. Its population is considered stable.

habitat:
M. carstiensis is common in rocky wooded habitats, and is unique in the genus Medicago because it thrives in the shade (Al-Atawneh et al. 2009). Found in karstic areas.

threats:
Although M. carstiensis is fairly rare in the wild it is also found over a relatievly large area so it is unlikely to be significantly threatened throughout its range, but the major threat is overgrazing and urbanisation.

conservationAction:
M. carstiensis   has few accessions available in gene banks, and is rare in the wild (Prosperi et al. 2001).    EURISCO reports four germplasm accessions held in European genebanks, two of which are reported to be of wild or weedy origin. Neither of these wild accessions originate from within Europe (EURISCO Catalogue 2010).

useAndTrade:
M. carstiensis is a potential gene donor for cultivated alfalfa, M. sativa ssp. sativa.


taxonomicNotes:
Medicago ciliaris (L.) All. belongs to the section Spirocarpos, subsection Intertextae. It is a secondary wild relative of the cultivated crop M. truncatula Gaertn., commonly known as barrel clover, and a tertiary wild relative of cultivated alfalfa, M. sativa L. ssp. sativa (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010).

redListCategoryRationale:
European regional assessment: Least Concern (LC) EU 27 regional assessment: Least Concern (LC) Due to the widespread nature of Medicago ciliaris, and no known threats, it is classified as Least Concern.

range:
M. ciliaris is found throughout southern Europe, western Asia and northern Africa (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010). In France it is confined to six departments in the south (Aveyron,   Pyrénées Orientales, Aude,   Hérault,   Bouches-du-Rhône and Var) and Corsica (Association Tela Botanica 2010).

population:
This is a common species with a broad range and populations appear to be stable (Al-Atawneh et al. 2009).

habitat:
M. ciliaris is found on heavy moist soils in a wide variety of habitats, such as arable fields, uncultivated olive groves, the banks of ditches and bodies of water, and marshes close to the sea (Al-Atawneh et al. 2009).

threats:
There appears to be no major threats. It is found in several habitats which are not threatened within its distribution (Al-Atawneh et al. 2009).

conservationAction:
M. ciliaris has a large amount of accessions conserved in gene banks, and is widespread in the wild (Prosperi et al. 2001).    EURISCO reports only three germplasm accessions held in European genebanks, none of which are reported to be of wild or weedy origin (EURISCO Catalogue 2010).

useAndTrade:
M. ciliaris is a potential gene donor for the cultivated crop M. truncatula, commonly known as barrel clover, and also for cultivated alfalfa, M. sativa L. ssp. sativa.


taxonomicNotes:
Medicago citrina (Font Quer) Greuter belongs to the section Dendrotelis and is a tertiary wild relative of alfalfa, M. sativa (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010).

redListCategoryRationale:
Medicago citrina # is assessed as Critically Endangered because the area of occupancy (AOO) is less than 10 km², the global population is very fragmented, and there is evidence of decline in number of mature individuals as well as quality of habitat.

range:
This species only grows in small, fragmented subpopulations on the rocky slopes of some Balearic Islands, the Columbretes archipelago (province of Castellón), and on one small islet (the 'Illot de la Mona' or 'Escull del Cap de Sant Antoni') situated just off the coast of the Cape of St Antoni (province of Alicante). There are no known populations on the large Balearic Islands (Ibiza, Cabrera and Majorca) themselves, only on the islets surrounding Ibiza and Cabrera. Plants have been introduced onto one islet of Majorca.  The area of occupancy (AOO) is less than 10 km².

population:
The global population is very fragmented, with very few individuals and the population trend is declining.

habitat:
This shrub or small tree grows on rocky slopes. The plant grows on several small islands, and is thought to be dispersed by seabirds or other animals. It seems that seed germination improves after passing through an animal's digestive tract.

threats:
In 1997, the subpopulation on the Columbretes decreased by 40% due to an attack of scale insects (Icerya purchasi) introduced from Australia, The same insects were detected on the Balearic Islands in 2001. Other threats include introduced rabbits, alien species such as Opuntia maxima which has invaded parts of its habitat (e.g., on the Illot de la Mona), and periodic, severe attacks of the parasitic plant Cuscuta. Invasive species may be more tolerant of drought than M. citrina, which has considerably reduced fruit set under dry conditions.

conservationAction:
The species is presently listed in Annex I of the Spanish Royal Decree 439/1990, in the category 'sensible to the disturbance of its habitat', which guarantees protection of its natural habitat. Since 1985, it is strictly protected within the region of Valencia by a regional government decree.  In situ on the Columbretes: Here M. citrina occurs within a federally-owned nature reserve. Access to populations on the Islands Ferrara and Foradada is strictly prohibited apart from scientific expeditions. These two islands have now been designated as micro-reserves by the regional government, and a management plan was developed in 1993. The species has been reintroduced to the island of Grossa where it was eradicated by rabbits brought to the island in the 18th and 19th centuries. The rabbits were eliminated by 1987.  In situ 'Illot de la Mona': The plant micro-reserve, itself within the boundaries of the El Montago Nature Park and established by the regional government of Valencia, now fully protects this small population of approximately 25 plants. An action plan for the micro-reserve has recently been approved.  In situ on the Balearic Islands: Most of the subpopulations occur within the National Park of Cabrera. The botanical garden of Sóller has put in place a conservation plan on the islets around Cabrera, which includes reintroduction and monitoring of the populations. It is intended that these measures will also be applied to the islets of Ibiza. All the small Balearic islands are protected as Natural Areas of Special Interest under the Parliament of the Balearic Islands law 1/1991.  Ex situ: This plant is cultivated and seeds stored in the botanic garden of Valencia. It is also under cultivation in the botanical garden of Sóller and IMIDA (Instituto Murciano de Investigación y Desarrollo Agropecuario) of Murcia. No germplasm accessions are reported by EURISCO to be held in European genebanks (EURISCO Catalogue 2010).The priority is to control attacks by the scale insect. It has been noted that the scale insect is a problem in citrus farms on the Spanish mainland, since farmers spray their citrus trees to kill a leaf miner, and in doing so kill a ladybird which is the main predator of the scale insect. If correct, measures are needed to maintain ladybirds in the areas where Medicago grows. A method of controlling Cuscuta also needs to be identified, and invasive alien species (e.g., Opuntia maxima) need to be managed. In general, conservation efforts require more information about the population trends of M. citrina over a prolonged period. Reintroduction work needs to be continued.

useAndTrade:
M. citrina is a potential gene donor to alfalfa, M. sativa ssp. sativa.


taxonomicNotes:
Medicago constricta Durieu belongs to the section Spirocarpos, subsection Pachyspireae, and is a secondary wild relative of the cultivated crop barrel clover, M. truncatula Gaertn., and a tertiary wild relative of cultivated alfalfa, M. sativa L. ssp. sativa (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010).

redListCategoryRationale:
European regional assessment: Least Concern (LC)EU 27 regional assessment: Least Concern (LC)Medicago constricta is reasonably widespread and abundant, it is not facing major threats throughout its range and therefore it is considered as Least Concern.

range:
M. constricta is native only to Bulgaria, Greece (Crete and mainland) and Cyprus in Europe (Al-Atawneh et al. 2009), but is also found in parts of western Asia and the Caucasus (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010).

population:
This species is quite common in Cyprus and Greece, but is a rare in Bulgaria where it is at the extreme northwest of its range. Its population appears to be stable (Al-Atawneh et al. 2009).

habitat:
M. constricta grows on disturbed limestone and dry, sandy soils in a variety of habitats. These include arable fields, fallow fields, pastures, meadows, pine forests, and dry stony hillsides and banks (Al-Atawneh et al. 2009).

threats:
Overgrazing is affecting the species in parts of its range.  It is  found several habitats which are not  threatened  within  its   distribution  (Al-Atawneh  et al., 2009) although it is possibly threatened due to habitat erosion, and grows in regions  threatened by climate change (Prosperi et al. 2001).

conservationAction:
M. constricta   has 38 accessions available in gene banks. It occurs in protected areas in Bulgaria and Cyprus.    EURISCO reports 29 germplasm accessions held in European genebanks, 28 of which are reported to be of wild or weedy origin. Of the wild accessions, all 28 originate from within Europe; 26 of which originate from Cyprus and two of which originate from Greece. All 28 are stored in Junta de Extremadura, Servicio de Investigación y Desarrollo Tecnológico, Finca la Orden, Spain (EURISCO Catalogue 2010).

useAndTrade:
M. constricta is a potential gene donor for the cultivated crops barrel clover, M. truncatula, and alfalfa, M. sativa ssp. sativa. It is sometimes used for stabilisation of any areas.


taxonomicNotes:
Medicago coronata (L.) Bartal. belongs to the section Spirocarpos, subsection Leptospireae, and is a secondary wild relative of the cultivated crops M. arabica (L.) Huds. (spotted medic), and M. polymorpha L. (bur medic), and a tertiary wild relative of cultivated alfalfa, M. sativa L. ssp. sativa (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010).

redListCategoryRationale:
European regional assessment: Least Concern (LC) EU 27 regional assessment: Least Concern (LC)  Medicago constricta is a common species and there appears to be no major threats. It is found in several habitats which are not threatened within Europe, its population appears to be stable; therefore, it is regionally assessed in Europe as Least Concern.

range:
M. coronata is native to southern Europe, northern Africa, western Asia and parts of central Asia (Al-Atawneh et al. 2009). It has been naturalised in Portugal (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010). In Spain in the east and south it is native as it is in France. In France it is confined to eight departments in the southeast:   Pyrénées Orientales,   Hérault, Gard,   Bouches-du-Rhône, Vaucluse, Hautes-Alpes,   Alpes-de-Haute-Provence and Var (Association Tela Botanica 2010).

population:
The exact population size is unknown, but the species is considered common throughout its range and its population levels are considered stable (Al-Atawneh et al. 2009).

habitat:
M. coronata is generally found on calcareous soils in a wide range of habitats. It commonly grows on   stony plains, hillsides, limestone, maquis, dry meadows, fallow fields, pastures, steppe, dunes and garrigue (evergreen shrubland hard leaves habitat) (Al-Atawneh et al. 2009).In Spain it is found in grasslands, sandy soils and limestone.

threats:
It is possibly threatened due to habitat erosion, and grows in some regions threatened by climate change (Prosperi et al. 2001), however it is common in diverse habitats so overall is not considered seriously threatened.

conservationAction:
M. coronata   has few accessions available in gene banks.    EURISCO reports 17 germplasm accessions held in European genebanks, five of which are reported to be of wild or weedy origin. Of the wild accessions, four originate from within Europe: two of which originate from France (one stored in Genetic Resources Unit, Institute of Biological, Environmental and Rural Sciences, Aberystwyth University, UK and one in Junta de Extremadura, Servicio de Investigación y Desarrollo Tecnológico, Finca la Orden, Spain), one from Greece (stored in Greek Genebank, Agricultural Research Center of Macedonia and Thrace, National Agricultural Research Foundation, Greece) and one from Italy (also stored in Junta de Extremadura, Servicio de Investigación y Desarrollo Tecnológico, Finca la Orden, Spain) (EURISCO Catalogue 2010).

useAndTrade:
M. coronata #is a potential gene donor for the cultivated crops M. arabica (spotted medic), M. polymorpha (bur medic), M. sativa ssp. sativa (alfalfa).


taxonomicNotes:
Medicago cretacea M. Bieb. belongs to section Platycarpae, and is a tertiary wild relative of cultivated alfalfa, M. sativa L. ssp. sativa (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010).

redListCategoryRationale:
European regional assessment: Endangered (EN) EU 27 regional assessment: Not Evaluated (NE)  The area of occupancy (AOO) and extent of occurrence (EOO) of this species meet Endangered thresholds, as the species occurs in less than five locations, there is habitat decline and decline in the AOO as well as in the  number of locations and subpopulations. The number of mature individuals is less than 2,500 with less than 250 in each subpopulation.  It does not occur within the EU 27.

range:
M. cretacea is native to parts of Russia and the Ukraine (Al-Atawneh et al. 2009, USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010). In the  Ukraine the species occurs at only one site in Crimea near Belogorsk (Fedorov 1974) and outside of the European region in Russia it is confined to the Krasnodarsky region with an extent of occurrence (EOO) smaller than  5,000 km2. The area of occupancy (AOO) is smaller than 500 km2.

population:
This species is very rare and the precise population trend is unknown, but bearing in mind its very restricted distribution and limited habitat range and the known overgrazing of this habitat it is suspected that the population is decreasing. The number of mature individuals is suspected to be below 2,500, with less than 250 in each subpopulation.

habitat:
M. cretacea grows on chalk and lime deposits in lower mountain zones on dry calcareous soils (Al-Atawneh et al. 2009). The species is very limited by the ecological conditions. It is only found on calcareous soils of the slopes.

threats:
Tourism development near Belogorsk is the main threat to the species in Crimea. The Krasnodorsky region is under infrastructure development for the Olympic Games. Agricultural expansion is another threat in this region (agro-industry scale).

conservationAction:
M. cretacea   has few accessions available in gene banks, and is rare in the wild (Prosperi et al. 2001). In situ conservation especially preservation of its special habitat is needed. More information on the sites in the Krasnodarsky region is needed.EURISCO reports eight germplasm accessions held in European genebanks, two of which are reported to be of wild or weedy origin. Of the wild accessions, only one originates from within Europe. This accession originates from Ukraine and is stored in Plant Breeding and Acclimatization Institute, Poland (EURISCO Catalogue 2010).

useAndTrade:
M. cretacea is a potential gene donor for the cultivated crop alfalfa, M. sativa ssp. sativa.


taxonomicNotes:
Medicago disciformis DC. belongs to the section Spirocarpos, subsection Leptospireae, and is a secondary wild relative of the cultivated crops M. arabica (L.) Huds. (spotted medic), and M. polymorpha L. (bur medic), and a tertiary wild relative of cultivated alfalfa, M. sativa L. ssp. sativa (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010).

redListCategoryRationale:
European regional assessment: Least Concern (LC) EU 27 regional assessment: Least Concern (LC)Medicago disciformis is a common  species and there appears to be no major threats. It is found in  several habitats which are not threatened within Europe and its population  appears to be stable; therefore, it is regionally assessed in Europe as  Least Concern.

range:
M. disciformis is native to parts of southern Europe and western Asia (Al-Atawneh et al. 2009, USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010).In Spain it occurs in the east and south. In France it is confined to eight southeastern departments (Pyrénées Orientales, Aude,   Hérault, Aveyron, Gard, Vaucluse,   Bouches-du-Rhône and Var) and Corsica (Association Tela Botanica 2010).

habitat:
M. discoformis grows in a variety of habitats, including rocky hillsides, roadsides, meadows, woodland and coastal maquis (Al-Atawneh et al. 2009).In Spain this species is found in grasslands, in sandy soils.

threats:
It is possibly threatened due to habitat erosion, and grows in regions threatened by climate change (Prosperi et al. 2001), however it is common in diverse habitats so overall is not considered seriously threatened.

conservationAction:
M. disciformis   has few accessions available in gene banks.    EURISCO reports 29 germplasm accessions held in European genebanks, 10 of which are reported to be of wild or weedy origin. All of these wild accessions originate from within Europe. These 10 wild accessions were collected in Bulgaria (one), Cyprus (one), France (three), Greece (four) and Spain (one) (EURISCO Catalogue 2010).

useAndTrade:
M. disciformis is a potential gene donor for the cultivated crops M. arabica (spotted medic), M. polymorpha (bur medic), and M. sativa ssp. sativa (alfalfa).

redListAssessors:
Korpelainen, H., Holubec, V., Asdal, Å., Magos Brehm, J., Labokas, J., Vögel, R. & Donnini, D.


taxonomicNotes:
Medicago doliata Carmign. belongs to the section Spirocarpos, subsection Pachyspireae. It is a secondary wild relative of the cultivated crop M. truncatula Gaertn., commonly known as barrel clover, and a tertiary wild relative of cultivated alfalfa, M. sativa L. ssp. sativa (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010).

redListCategoryRationale:
European regional assessment: Least Concern (LC)   #EU 27 regional assessment: Least Concern (LC)    Medicago doliata is a  common  species and there appears to be no major threats. It is found in   several habitats which are not threatened within Europe, populations   appear to be stable; therefore, it is regionally assessed in Europe as   Least Concern.

range:
M. doliata is found in southern Europe, western Asia and northern Africa (Al-Atawneh et al. 2009, USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010).In France it is confined to six southeastern departments (Pyrénées Orientales, Aude,   Hérault,   Bouches-du-Rhône, Var and Alpes-Maritimes) and Corsica (Association Tela Botanica 2000–2010).

habitat:
M. doliata is found in fields or on field margins, growing on sandy and chalky soils (Al-Atawneh et al. 2009).

conservationAction:
M. doliata   is a widespread species, with a large number of accessions available in gene banks (Prosperi et al. 2001).  EURISCO reports 42 germplasm accessions held in European genebanks, 41 of which are reported to be of wild or weedy origin. Of the wild accessions, 38 originate from within Europe: six of which originate from Portugal and 32 of which originate from Spain. All 38 of these wild accessions are stored in Junta de Extremadura, Servicio de Investigación y Desarrollo Tecnológico, Finca la Orden, Spain (EURISCO Catalogue 2010).

useAndTrade:
M. doliata is a potential gene donor for the cultivated crop M. truncatula, commonly known as barrel clover, and cultivated alfalfa, M. sativa ssp. sativa.


taxonomicNotes:
Medicago fischeriana (Ser.) Trautv. belongs to section Buceras, subsection Erectae, and is a tertiary wild relative of cultivated alfalfa, M. sativa L. ssp. sativa (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010).

redListCategoryRationale:
European regional assessment: Critically Endangered (CR) EU 27 regional assessment: Not Evaluated (NE)  Medicago fischeriana is only found at one location in Crimea in the lower belt of the Kara Dag mountains which are a popular tourist destination. The species habitat is declining due to recreational activities. The extent of occurrence (EOO) is smaller than 100 km2. The species is therefore classed as Critically Endangered. It would also qualify as Endangered under Criterion B2ab(iii) and C2a(i).  It does not occur within the EU 27.

range:
M. fischeriana is distributed in certain parts of eastern Europe, western Asia and the Caucasus (Al-Atawneh et al. 2009, USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010).In Europe, it is only found in Crimea in Kara Dag. It is possible that the species extends into Russia from the Caucasus but there are no confirmed records.The extent of occurrence (EOO) is smaller than 100 km2.

population:
This species has a scattered distribution with small populations and few individuals each. The number of mature individuals is probably below 2,500.Population trend is suspected to be decreasing.

habitat:
M. fischeriana is found in open mixed woodland, scrubland, agricultural fields and fallows, pastures, earthy scree, roadsides, valleys and on igneaous hill slopes (Al-Atawneh et al. 2009). In Crimea it occurs on rocky slopes in lower part of mountainous belt, but where there is no forest cover as on the Kara Dag site, species needs open places.

threats:
Kara Dag is under pressure from tourism development and tourist walks, horseriding and jeep excursions. The number of locations is one as this threat is affecting the whole area.

conservationAction:
Five accessions of M. fischeriana are held ex situ at the Regional Plant Introduction Station in Washington, USA (USDA, ARS,  National Genetic Resources Program 2010).No germplasm accessions are reported by EURISCO to be held in European genebanks (EURISCO Catalogue 2010).

useAndTrade:
M. fischeriana is a potential gene donor for cultivated alfalfa, M. sativa ssp. sativa.


taxonomicNotes:
Medicago glandulosa Davidov. is a primary wild relative of the widely cultivated perennial plant M. sativa L. ssp. sativa, commonly known as alfalfa (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010). It should be noted that the taxonomic status of this species is unsure Al-Atawneh et al. (2009) regard it as a synonym of&# M. sativa.

redListCategoryRationale:
European regional assessment: Vulnerable (VU) EU 27 regional assessment: Not Evaluated (NE)  Medicago glandulosa is only  found at 10 locations in Crimea which are a popular tourist destination. The species habitat  is declining due to recreational activities as well as the area of occupancy. The extent of occurrence (EOO) is smaller than 20,000  km2 and the area of occupancy (AOO) is less than 2,000  km2. The species is therefore classed as Vulnerable.It does not occur within the EU 27.

range:
M. glandulosa has a fairly small distributional range, occurring mostly in eastern and southeastern Europe, as well as Georgia (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010).The species is only found in southern Crimea and the Russian Caucasus. Occurrences in Ukraine mainland and European Russia are probably not native.The extent of occurrence (EOO) is smaller than 20,000 km2 and the area of occupancy (AOO) is smaller than  2,000 km2. The species occurs at less than 10 locations.

population:
The exact population size is unknown, but the species has a fairly small distributional range, occurring only in the Crimea, where the habitats are known to be being eroded by tourism and overgrazing, so populations are predicted to be decreasing.

habitat:
M. glandulosa is found on calcareous rocks, and is adapted to dry, boreal and steppe conditions (Al-Atawneh et al. 2009).It is found on open places in herb communities. Sometimes it occurs as a weedy plants in fields and sometimes found along roads (Fedorov 1974).The species prefers dry meadows and dry mountain slopes (Afonin et al. 2008).

threats:
The area where the species is found in Crimea is under intensive tourist development and is overgrazed, as a consequence this could indicate habitat decline.

conservationAction:
M. glandulosa, as well as the majority of Mediterranean species of Medicago, has germplasm stored in numerous genebanks, notably the Australian Medicago Genetic Resources Centre (AMGRC) in Adelaide, Australia, the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Agricultural Research Service (ARS) in the USA, and the International Centre for Agricultural Research in the Dry Areas (ICARDA) in Syria (Prosperi et al. 2001).No germplasm accessions are reported by EURISCO to be held in European genebanks (EURISCO Catalogue 2010). As this species is in the primary gene of alfalfa further germplasm collection should be a priority.

useAndTrade:
M. glandulosa is a potential gene donor to M. sativa ssp. sativa, commonly known as alfalfa. It could also be used as a forage crop (Al-Atawneh et al. 2009).


taxonomicNotes:
Medicago globosa C. Presl belongs to the section Spirocarpos, subsection Pachyspireae. It is a secondary wild relative of the cultivated crop M. truncatula Gaertn., commonly known as barrel clover, and a tertiary wild relative of cultivated alfalfa, M. sativa L. ssp. sativa (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010). It should be noted that the taxonomic status of this species is unsure and Al-Atawneh et al. (2009) regards it as a synonym of&# M. constricta.

redListCategoryRationale:
European regional assessment: Least Concern (LC)  EU 27 regional assessment: Least Concern (LC)    Medicago globosum is  a  common  species and there appears to be no major threats. It is  found in   several habitats which are not threatened within Europe,  populations   appear to be stable; therefore, it is regionally assessed  in Europe as   Least Concern.

range:
In Europe, M. globosa is native to Bulgaria and Greece, but also occurs in parts of western Asia and the Caucasus (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010). The species also occurs in Italy and Malta.

population:
The exact population size is unknown, but the species is considered common throughout its range and suffering no specific threats, therefore population levels are considered stable (Al-Atawneh et al. 2009).

habitat:
M. globosa grows in arable fields, fallow fields, pastures, meadows, dry, stony hillsides and banks, and pine forests. It is found in dry, sandy soils and disturbed limestone (Al-Atawneh et al. 2009).

conservationAction:
53 accessions of M. globosa are held ex situ at the Regional Plant Introduction Station in Washington, USA (USDA, ARS,  National Genetic Resources Program 2010).No germplasm accessions are reported by EURISCO to be held in European genebanks (EURISCO Catalogue 2010).

useAndTrade:
M. globosa is a potential gene donor for the cultivated crops M. truncatula (barrel clover), and M. sativa ssp. sativa (alfalfa).


taxonomicNotes:
Medicago granadensis Willd. belongs to the section Spirocarpos, subsection Intertextae. It is a secondary wild relative of the cultivated crop M. truncatula Gaertn., commonly known as barrel clover, and a tertiary wild relative of cultivated alfalfa, M. sativa L. ssp. sativa (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010).

redListCategoryRationale:
European regional assessment: Not Applicable (NA) EU 27 regional assessment: Not Applicable (NA) Medicago granadensis # is not native but introduced in Europe and is therefore classified as Not Applicable.

range:
M. granadensis has a relatively limited distribution, occurring in parts of western Asia and northern Africa (namely Egypt). It has been introduced in France and Spain, but not fully naturalised (Al-Atawneh et al. 2009, USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010).

habitat:
M. granadensis grows on heavy soils in fallow fields and ditch sides (Al-Atawneh et al. 2009).

threats:
No information available. It is possibly threatened due to habitat erosion, and grows in regions threatened by climate change (Prosperi et al. 2001).

conservationAction:
M. granadensis has few accessions available in gene banks. EURISCO reports three germplasm accessions held in European genebanks, none of which are reported to be of wild or weedy origin (EURISCO Catalogue 2010).

useAndTrade:
M. granadensis is a potential gene donor for the cultivated crops M. truncatula (barrel clover), and M. sativa ssp. sativa (alfalfa).


taxonomicNotes:
Medicago heterocarpa Spach is a tertiary wild relative of the cultivated crop alfalfa, M. sativa ssp. sativa. Association Tela Botanica (2000) and Al-Atawneh et al. (2009) consider this as a synonym of M. murex which has a wider distribution and which is also an accepted species in Euro+Med PlantBase (2006) and in our list for assessment.

redListCategoryRationale:
Assessed as Data Deficient in view of the lack of information on population size and trend, habitat requirement and threats. It seems likely that Medicago hetrocarpa is a synonym of Medicago murex.

range:
M. heterocarpa is endemic to the French island of Corsica.

conservationAction:
No information available.No germplasm accessions are reported by EURISCO to be held in European genebanks (EURISCO Catalogue 2010).

useAndTrade:
M. heterocarpa is a potential gene donor for the cultivated crop alfalfa, M. sativa ssp. sativa.


taxonomicNotes:
Medicago heyniana Greuter belongs to the section Heynianae, and is a tertiary wild relative of cultivated alfalfa, M. sativa L. subsp. sativa (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010).

redListCategoryRationale:
Medicago heyniana has a relatively restricted extent of cocurrence (EOO), as it is present only in Crete, Rhodes and some Eastern Aegean Islands. It is facing relatively high level of threats due to tourist development and increase in fire and the quality and extent of its habitat is decreasing. However, it is found in more than 10 locations. It is therefore considered as Near Threatened approaching Criterion B1b(iii).

range:
M. heyniana is native to Greece (mainland, Crete, East Aegean Islands) in Europe. It is also found in Jordan and parts of Turkey (Al-Atawneh et al. 2009).

population:
The exact population size is unknown, but the species is considered rare throughout its range (Al-Atawneh et al. 2009).

habitat:
M. heyniana grows on dry, rocky hillsides (Al-Atawneh et al. 2009).

threats:
This species is threatened by tourist development and overgrazing. Increase in fire frequency and intensity is also a problem.

conservationAction:
M. heyniana has few accessions available in gene banks, and is rare in the wild (Prosperi et al. 2001). Further material should be gathered for ex situ conservation. Reaserch on the distribution and population trends and size is required.No germplasm accessions are reported by EURISCO to be held in European genebanks (EURISCO Catalogue 2010).

useAndTrade:
M. heyniana is a potential gene donor for cultivated alfalfa, M. sativa ssp. sativa.


taxonomicNotes:
Medicago hybrida (Pourr.) Trautv. belongs to the section Medicago, and is a secondary wild relative of cultivated alfalfa M. sativa L. ssp. sativa (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010).

redListCategoryRationale:
European regional assessment: Least Concern (LC) EU 27 regional assessment: Least Concern (LC)      Medicago hybrida is a common species and there appears to be no major threats. It is found in several habitats which are not threatened within Europe, populations appear to be stable; therefore, it is regionally assessed in Europe as Least Concern.

range:
M. hybrida is endemic to the south of France (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010) and also occurs in Spain and Morocco (Al-Atawneh et al. 2009).In France it is confined to the departments of Haute-Garonne, Ariège, Aude and Pyrénées Orientales in the south of the country (Association Tela Botanica 2010).

population:
The exact population size is unknown, but the species is considered widespread and a common species in Spain (Al-Atawneh et al. 2009). The population trend is considered stable.

habitat:
M. hybrida grows on grassy glades on limestone slopes, on open scrublands, dry rocky hillsides and pine forests (Al-Atawneh et al. 2009).

threats:
It is possibly threatened due to habitat erosion, but it is common in diverse habitats so overall is not considered seriously threatened.

conservationAction:
M. hybrida   has few accessions available in gene banks. It occurs in several protected areas.    EURISCO reports three germplasm accessions held in European genebanks, only one of which is reported to be of wild or weedy origin. This wild accession does not originate from within Europe (EURISCO Catalogue 2010).

useAndTrade:
M. hybrida is a tertiary wild relative and potential gene donor for cultivated alfalfa, M. sativa ssp. sativa.


taxonomicNotes:
Medicago hypogaea E. Small belongs to section Geocarpa, and is a tertiary wild relative of cultivated alfalfa, M. sativa L. ssp. sativa (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010).

redListCategoryRationale:
European regional assessment: Near Threatened (NT)EU 27 regional assessment: Near Threatened (NT)Medicago hypogaea has an extent of occurrence (EOO) of less than 2,000 km2 (in the northern part of Cyprus) and it might have a restricted area of occupancy (AOO), but there is no obvious current threats. It is therefore considered as Near Threatened.

range:
M. hypogaea is native to parts of north Africa and western Asia, including the northern part of Cyprus and Turkey (Al-Atawneh et al. 2009, USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010). The extent of occurrence (EOO) is less than 2,000 km2.

population:
The population size is unknown. This species is probably much more frequent than the records suggest, as it is a rather small species, easily overlooked. The population trend is considered stable.

habitat:
M. hypogaea is found in very dry Mediterranean scrub vegetation, dry trampled grasslands and rocky environments (Al-Atawneh et al. 2009).

threats:
This species is related to very dry habitats and suffers from drought; climate change is likely to accentuate this impact.

conservationAction:
No accessions of M. hypogaea  currently exist ex situ in genebanks (USDA, ARS,  National Genetic Resources Program 2010). No germplasm accessions are reported by EURISCO to be held in European genebanks (EURISCO Catalogue 2010). Material should be gathered for ex situ conservation. More research is needed on the population trends and the distribution. A monitoring  programme should be implemented.

useAndTrade:
M. hypogaea is a potential gene donor for cultivated alfalfa, M. sativa ssp. sativa. It might have some specific useful genes related to the fact that it is found in very dry areas.


taxonomicNotes:
Medicago intertexta (L.) Mill. belongs to the section Spirocarpos, subsection Intertextae. It is a secondary wild relative of the cultivated crop M. truncatula Gaertn., commonly known as barrel clover, and a tertiary wild relative of cultivated alfalfa, M. sativa L. ssp. sativa (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010).

redListCategoryRationale:
European regional assessment: Least Concern (LC) EU 27 regional assessment: Least Concern (LC)      Medicago intertexta is a common species and there appears to be no major threats. It is  found in several habitats which are not threatened within Europe,  population appears to be stable; therefore, it is regionally assessed  in Europe as Least Concern.

range:
M. intertexta is native to parts of southern Europe and north Africa, but has been naturalised in certain areas of Asia, Australasia and South America (Al-Atawneh et al. 2009, USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010).In France it is confined to the southeastern departments of   Hérault, Var and Alpes-Maritimes and the two departments of Corsica (Association Tela Botanica 2000-2010).

population:
The exact population size is unknown, but the species is considered widespread and a common species throughout its range (Al-Atawneh et al. 2009). Its population trend is considered stable.

habitat:
M. intertexta grows on heavy, moist soils, but has also been recorded growing on sand. It is found in arable land and field margins, and rocky outcrops (Al-Atawneh et al. 2009).

threats:
This is a common species and there appears to be no major threats. It is found several habitats which are not threatened within its region. It is possibly threatened due to habitat erosion, and grows in regions threatened by climate change (Prosperi et al. 2001).

conservationAction:
M. intertexta   has few accessions available in gene banks.EURISCO reports 21 germplasm accessions held in European genebanks, four of which are reported to be of wild or weedy origin. Of the wild accessions, three originate from within Europe: two of which originate from Cyprus (stored in Junta de Extremadura, Servicio de Investigación y Desarrollo Tecnológico, Finca la Orden, Spain) and one of which originates from Ukraine (stored in Ustymivka Experimental Station of Plant Production, Ukraine) (EURISCO Catalogue 2010).

useAndTrade:
M. intertexta is a potential gene donor for the cultivated crops M. truncatula (barrel clover), and alfalfa, M. sativa ssp. sativa.


taxonomicNotes:
Medicago italica (Mill.) Fiori belongs to the section Spirocarpos, subsection Pachyspireae. It is a secondary wild relative of the cultivated crop barrel clover, M. truncatula Gaertn, and a tertiary wild relative of cultivated alfalfa, M. sativa L. ssp. sativa (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010). Three subspecies are native to Europe: Medicago italica (Mill.) Fiori ssp. italica, Medicago italica (Mill.) Fiori ssp. striata (Bastard) Greuter & Burdet, and Medicago italica (Mill.) Fiori ssp. tornata (L.) Emb. & Maire. Note M. tornata is listed as a synonym but is also accepted by Euro+Med Plantbase (2006-2010). In the French online database (Association Tela Botanica 2000), M. italica and all subspecies are considered to be M. tornata ssp. obscura.In Portugal and Spain, Medicago italica (Mill.) Fiori in Fiori et Paol. is the accepted species for Medicago tornata (L.) Mill. (which is then its synonym).

redListCategoryRationale:
European regional assessment: Least Concern (LC) EU 27 regional assessment: Least Concern (LC)      Medicago italica is  a common species and there appears to be no major threats. It is  found  in several habitats which are not threatened within Europe, and its population appears to be stable; therefore, it is regionally assessed   in Europe as Least Concern.

range:
M. italica is native to southern Europe and parts of north Africa (Al-Atawneh et al. 2009), but has been naturalised in Australia and is cultivated worldwide (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010). It is native to Madeira according to Borges et al. (2008).

population:
The exact population size is unknown, but the species is considered widespread and common species throughout its range (Al-Atawneh et al. 2009). Its population trend is considered stable.

habitat:
M. italica is often found growing on the seashore in sandy soils (Al-Atawneh et al. 2009).

threats:
This is a common species and there appears to be no major threats. It is  found several habitats which are not threatened within its region. It is possibly threatened due to habitat erosion, and grows in regions threatened by climate change (Prosperi et al. 2001).

conservationAction:
M. italica has few accessions available in gene banks. EURISCO reports only one germplasm accession held in European genebanks and this is not reported to be of wild or weedy origin (EURISCO Catalogue 2010).

useAndTrade:
M. italica is a potential gene donor for the cultivated crops barrel clover, M. truncatula, and alfalfa, M. sativa ssp. sativa.


taxonomicNotes:
Medicago komarovii Vassilcz. belongs to section Medicago, and is a secondary wild relative of cultivated alfalfa, Medicago sativa ssp. sativa (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010).

redListCategoryRationale:
European regional assessment: Not Applicable (NA) EU 27 regional assessment: Not Evaluated (NE)  The species range in Europe hold a very small proportion of the global population, less than 1% of its global population; therefore this species is classed as Not Applicable.  It does not occur within the EU 27.

range:
M. komarovii is naturalised throughout Europe and central Asia, as well as many other regions worldwide. It is thought to be native to Europe, but details of its exact native range are not well known (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010). According to Euro+Med PlantBase (2006), it is native to Kazakhstan in Europe.The natural area of its distribution is north, west and middle Asia.Only present at Ural River near Kaspian Sea plain in the lower Wolga floristic region. This area presents less than 1% of its global population.

habitat:
M. komarovii is generally found growing in agricultural areas (Al-Atawneh et al. 2009). Found in steppes, open sandy and calcareous soils and sometimes along roads or on rocky soils. Occurs on river banks.

useAndTrade:
M. komarovii is a primary wild relative of cultivated alfalfa (M. sativa), and could be used as a gene donor for traits such as cold tolerance, drought resistance, and yield improvement.


taxonomicNotes:
Medicago kotovii Wissjul. belongs to the section Medicago and is a secondary wild relative of alfalfa, M. sativa (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010).

redListCategoryRationale:
European regional assessment: Vulnerable (VU)EU 27 regional assessment: Not Evaluated (NE)The area of occupancy (AOO) for Medicago kotovii is less than 2,000 km², there are less than 10 locations, and the species' habitat is suspected to be declining due to overgrazing, urbanisation and tourism development. The number of mature individuals is probably less than 10,000 with less than 1,000 individuals per subpopulation.It does not occur within the EU 27.

range:
M. kotovii is endemic to the Ukraine. It is confined to the southeast of the Ukraine in the southern part of the Dnepr River basin and the territory close to the Black Sea. It is also reported in Moldova (Fedorov 1987). The area of occupancy (AOO) is estimated to be smaller than 2,000 km².

population:
There are only a few populations of this species with isolated individuals. The population trend is unknown but given the level of threat in the region due to overgrazing it seems likely the population is decreasing. The number of mature individuals is probably less than 10,000 with less than 1,000 individuals per subpopulation.

habitat:
Found in steppe regions in open places on calcareous and sandy soils. Sometimes found along roads.

threats:
There is no information on the specific threats available but the species is rare and declining. The main threats in this region are overgrazing, urbanisation and tourism development.

conservationAction:
There is no information about conservation actions available.No germplasm accessions are reported by EURISCO to be held in European genebanks (EURISCO Catalogue 2010).

useAndTrade:
M. kotovii is a potentail gene donor for cultivated alfalfa, M. sativa ssp. sativa.


taxonomicNotes:
Medicago laciniata (L.) Mill. belongs to the section Spirocarpos, subsection Leptospireae. It is a secondary wild relative of the cultivated crops M. arabica (L.) Huds. (spotted medic), and M. polymorpha L. (bur medic), and a tertiary wild relative of cultivated alfalfa, M. sativa L. ssp. sativa (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010).In this assessment Medicago laciniata and Medicago polymorpha are considered as separate species.

redListCategoryRationale:
European regional assessment: Least Concern (LC) EU 27 regional assessment: Least Concern (LC)      Medicago laciniata is   a common species and there appears to be no major threats. It is   found  in several habitats which are not threatened within Europe, its #   population appears to be stable; therefore, it is regionally assessed    in Europe as Least Concern.

range:
It occurs in the southeast of mainland Spain and in the Canary Islands. In Madeira it is probably Extinct. In Italy it is introduced. It is native to much of northern and eastern Africa, as well as western Asia and the Indian Subcontinent. It is naturalised in South Africa, Australia # (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010).

population:
The exact population size is unknown, but the species is considered widespread and a common species throughout its range (Al-Atawneh et al. 2009). It is common in the Canary Islands and has a restricted distribution in southeast mainland Spain.

habitat:
M. laciniata is found in a wide range of habitats, such as grasslands, pastures, dry river and wadi beds, beaches, cultivated and fallow fields, rocky slopes and hills, valley bottoms, sand dunes, desert and semi-desert areas (Al-Atawneh et al. 2009). In Spain it is only found in cultivated lands.

threats:
Land use change is a threat to this species.  It is possibly threatened due to habitat erosion, and grows in regions threatened by climate change (Prosperi et al. 2001), however it is common in diverse habitats so overall is not considered seriously threatened.

conservationAction:
M. laciniata   has few accessions available in gene banks. It occurs in protected areas.    EURISCO reports 15 germplasm accessions held in European genebanks, two of which are reported to be of wild or weedy origin. Of the wild accessions, only one originates from within Europe. This accession originates from France and is stored in Research Institute for Fodder Crops Ltd., Czech Republic (EURISCO Catalogue 2010).

useAndTrade:
M. laciniata is a potential gene donor for the cultivated crops M. arabica (spotted medic), M. polymorpha (bur medic), and alfalfa, M. sativa L. ssp. sativa.


taxonomicNotes:
Medicago lesinsii F. Small belongs to the section Spirocarpos, subsection Pachyspireae. It is a secondary wild relative of the cultivated crop M. truncatula Gaertn., commonly known as barrel clover, and a tertiary wild relative of cultivated alfalfa, M. sativa L. ssp. sativa (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010).

redListCategoryRationale:
European regional assessment: Least Concern (LC) EU 27 regional assessment: Least Concern (LC)      Medicago lesinsii is    a widely distributed species and there appears to be no major threats. It is beieved to be   found  in several habitats which are not threatened within Europe,     it is estimated that populations are stable, but more information about its distribution in Greece and Sardinia  is required; therefore, it is regionally assessed     in Europe as Least Concern.

range:
M. lesinsii is native to Greece, Sardinia and Spain in Europe, but is also found in parts of northern Africa and western Asia (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010).

population:
The exact population size is unknown, but the species is considered widespread and a common species throughout its range, although it has been infrequently collected (Alatawneh et al. 2009).

habitat:
Not much is known about the ecology of M. lesinsii due to infrequent collection expeditions, but it is known to grow in Mediterranean habitats (Al-Atawneh et al. 2009).

threats:
There are no known threats particularly impacting this species.

conservationAction:
M. lesinsii has 10 accessions held ex situ at the Regional Plant Introduction Station in Washington, USA (USDA, ARS,  National Genetic Resources Program 2010).No germplasm accessions are reported by EURISCO to be held in European genebanks (EURISCO Catalogue 2010).

useAndTrade:
M. lesinsii is a potential gene donor for the cultivated crops M. truncatula (barrel clover), and alfalfa, M. sativa ssp. sativa.


taxonomicNotes:
Medicago littoralis Rohde ex Lois belongs to the section Spirocarpos, subsection Pachyspireae. It is a secondary wild relative of cultivated barrel clover, M. truncatula Gaertn., and a tertiary wild relative of cultivated alfalfa, M. sativa L. ssp. sativa (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010).In Spain and Portugal it occurs in coastal areas with two other species (M. italica and M. truncatula) with which it can hybridise, so identification can be difficult.

redListCategoryRationale:
European regional assessment: Least Concern (LC) EU 27 regional assessment: Least Concern (LC)      Medicago littoralis is     a widely distributed species and there appears to be no major  threats. Although it is commonly only found  on or near beaches and in Europe these are increasingly threatened by tourism and urbanisation it is so widespread that is not considered threatened within Europe,     it is estimated that populations are  stable; therefore, it is regionally assessed     in  Europe as Least Concern.

range:
It is a widespread species with a  southern European range through to southern European Russia. Information is needed regarding the distribution in eastern Europe, in particular in Macedonia, Serbia etc. In France it occurs in seven departments along the western coastline, nine departments along the southern coastline, the department of Pas-de-Calais to the north, the department of Allier in central France and Corsica (Association Tela Botanica 2010).

population:
The exact population size is unknown, but the species is considered      widespread and a common species throughout its range, although it has  been infrequently collected  (Al-Atawneh  et al. 2009). It is very abundant in the Balearic Islands and in the coastal regions of Spain and Portugal, however it is rare in the interior of Iberian Peninsula.

habitat:
M. littoralis grows on sandy soils, occasionally inland, but generally on beaches and sand dunes (Al-Atawneh et al. 2009).In Portugal and Spain it is found in dunes, grasslands, and it prefers siliceous substrates, both coastal and inland.

threats:
There are no known threats particularly impacting this species. It is possibly threatened due to habitat erosion, and grows in regions threatened by climate change (Prosperi et al. 2001).

conservationAction:
M. littoralis   has few accessions available in gene banks.     EURISCO reports 43 germplasm accessions held in European genebanks, 28 of which are reported to be of wild or weedy origin. Of the wild accessions, 23 originate from within Europe. These wild accessions originate from the following European countries: Cyprus (ten), France (eight), Greece (one) and Spain (four) (EURISCO Catalogue 2010).

useAndTrade:
M. littoralis is a potential donor for cultivated barrel clover, M. truncatula, and cultivated alfalfa, M. sativa ssp. sativa.


taxonomicNotes:
Medicago lupulina L. belongs to the section Lupularia, and is a tertiary wild relative of cultivated alfalfa, M. sativa L. ssp. sativa (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010). The species contains three subspecies native to Europe: Medicago lupulina L. ssp. lupulina, Medicago lupulina L. ssp. jalasii (Rothm.) Holub and Medicago lupulina L. ssp. willdenowiana (Boenn.) Soják.

redListCategoryRationale:
European regional assessment: Least Concern (LC) EU 27 regional assessment: Least Concern (LC)      Medicago lupulina is      a very common species and there appears to be no major   threats,     it  is estimated that populations are  stable; therefore it is regionally  assessed     in  Europe as Least Concern.

range:
M. lupulina is native to the majority of countries on Europe (Al-Atawneh et al. 2009), as well as many temperate regions in Asia and northern Africa. It is naturalised in Africa, Asia, Australasia and North and South America (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010). In France it is widespread, occurs in all departments throughout the country including Corsica (Association Tela Botanica 2010). In the UK it is widespread across the whole of England and Wales (Preston et al. 2002). Its distribution becomes patchier in Scotland and Northern Ireland, particularly to the north (Preston et al. 2002) and in Ireland it is widespread across the majority of the country (Preston et al. 2002).

population:
The exact population size is unknown, but the species is considered widespread and a common species throughout its range (Al-Atawneh et al. 2009). In the UK, Preston et al. (2002) record this species as having a stable distribution.

habitat:
M. lupulina grows on clay and alluvium soils, as well as limestone, loam, volcanic basalt and calcareous substrates. It is found in open woodlands, pastures and meadows, roadsides, steppe habitats, grasslands, dry river beds, the banks of ditches and river banks (Al-Atawneh et al. 2009). It flowers between May and September and can tolerate annual precipitation of between 310 and 1,710 mm, annual mean temperature of between 5.7ºC and 22.5ºC, and soil pH of 4.5 to 8.2 (Duke 1981).  In the UK, this lowland species grows on relatively infertile neutral or calcareous soils (Preston et al. 2002). It prefers dry grassland, disturbed areas, sunny south facing pastures, roadside banks, waste places and walls (Preston et al. 2002).

threats:
There appears to be no major threats. It is found in several habitats which are not threatened within its region.

conservationAction:
M. lupulina   is a widespread species, with a large number of accessions available in gene banks (Prosperi et al. 2001).Classified as Least Concern  in Denmark (Den Danske Rødliste 2010).    EURISCO reports 239 germplasm accessions held in European genebanks, 123 of which are reported to be of wild or weedy origin. Of the wild accessions, 95 originate from within Europe (EURISCO Catalogue 2010).

useAndTrade:
Despite being a fairly distant tertiary wild relative of most cultivated Medicago species, it is a potential gene donor as it has displayed tolerance to certain bacteria, various viruses, weeds, and both low pH and high pH. It could also be used as green manure and as a forage crop as it mixes well with grasses and other clovers (Duke 1981).


taxonomicNotes:
Medicago marina L. belongs to the section Medicago, and is a secondary wild relative of cultivated alfalfa, M. sativa L. ssp. sativa (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010).

redListCategoryRationale:
European regional assessment: Least Concern (LC) EU 27 regional assessment: Least Concern (LC)      Medicago marina is      a widely distributed species and there appears to be no major   threats. Although it is commonly only found  growing on beaches and in  Europe these are increasingly threatened by tourism and urbanisation it  is so widespread that is not considered threatened within Europe,     it  is estimated that populations are  stable; therefore, it is regionally  assessed     in  Europe as Least Concern.

range:
M. marina is native to much of southern Europe, western Asia and northern Africa (Al-Atawneh et al. 2009, USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010). In France it occurs along the whole of the western and southern coastlines and Corsica (Association Tela Botanica 2010).

population:
The exact population size is unknown, but the species is considered widespread and a common species throughout its range, although it has been infrequently collected (Al-Atawneh et al. 2009).

habitat:
M. marina is only found on seashores, growing in loose sand, sandy meadows and cliffs (Al-Atawneh et al. 2009).

threats:
This is a common species and there appears to be no major threats. It is   found in several habitats which are not threatened within its region. It is possibly threatened due to habitat erosion, and grows in regions threatened by climate change (Prosperi et al. 2001).

conservationAction:
M. marina   has few accessions available in gene banks. In France the species is protected in the western region of Pays de la Loire (Association Tela Botanica 2010).    EURISCO reports 15 germplasm accessions held in European genebanks, nine of which are reported to be of wild or weedy origin. Of the wild accessions, five originate from within Europe: one of which originates from Cyprus (stored in National (CYPARI) Genebank, Agricultural Research Institute, Ministry of Agriculture, Natural Resources and Environment, Cyprus), two from France (stored in Genetic Resources Unit, Institute of Biological, Environmental and Rural Sciences, Aberystwyth University, UK) and two from Spain (stored in Comunidad de Madrid, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, Escuela Técnica Superior de Ingenieros Agrónomos, Banco de Germoplasma, Spain) (EURISCO Catalogue 2010).

useAndTrade:
M. marina belongs to the tertiary gene pool of cultivated alfalfa (M. sativa ssp. sativa), and as such is a potential gene donor for beneficial traits.


taxonomicNotes:
Medicago medicaginoides (Retz.) E. Small belongs to section Buceras, subsection Erectae, and is a tertiary wild relative of cultivated alfalfa, M. sativa L. ssp. sativa (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010).

redListCategoryRationale:
European regional assessment: Least Concern (LC) EU 27 regional assessment: Least Concern (LC)      Medicago medicaginoides # is       a widely distributed species and there appears to be no major    threats, it  is estimated that populations are  stable; therefore, it is  regionally  assessed     in  Europe as Least Concern. However, the lack of any active ex situ or in situ conservation means seed collection or protected area conservation is a priority.

range:
In Europe M. medicaginoides is native only to a few countries in the southeast, but it is also found widely in parts of western and central Asia, the Caucasus and Russia (Al-Atawneh et al. 2009, USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010).

habitat:
M. medicaginoides grows on various types of soil in a variety of habitats, including fallow and cultivated fields, pastures, steppe, stony slopes, gravel river terraces, and the ledges of limestone cliffs (Al-Atawneh et al. 2009).

conservationAction:
M. medicaginoides has five accessions held ex situ at the Regional Plant Introduction Station in Washington, USA (USDA, ARS,  National Genetic Resources Program 2010).No germplasm accessions are reported by EURISCO to be held in European genebanks (EURISCO Catalogue 2010).

useAndTrade:
M. medicaginoides is a potential gene donor for cultivated alfalfa, M. sativa ssp. sativa.


taxonomicNotes:
Medicago meyeri Gruner belongs to the section Spirocarpos, subsection Leptospirae. It is a secondary wild relative of the cultivated crops M. arabica (L.) Huds. (spotted medic), and M. polymorpha L. (bur medic), and a tertiary wild relative of cultivated alfalfa, M. sativa L. ssp. sativa (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010).

redListCategoryRationale:
European regional assessment: Data Deficient (DD)EU 27 regional assessment: Data Deficient (DD)  Medicago meyeri although is believed to be widespread there is no information on the population size and trend and on the major threats; it must therefore be regarded as Data Deficient.

range:
M. meyeri is native to the majority of European countries, and is also found across temperate regions in Asia and northern Africa. It is widely naturalised throughout Russia, Australasia and North and South America (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010). The species originated from the middle Asian Caucasus, central Europe and the Mediterranean. It is found in the western part of South  European Russia, in Ukraine close to the Black Sea, lower Don, lower Wolga (Fedorov 1987).

population:
The exact population size is unknown, but the species is considered widespread and a common species throughout its range. The population trend is unknown.

habitat:
M. meyeri prefers dry soils and grows in an array of different habitats, including   moist grassy banks, woodland edges, rocky limestone slopes, steppe, sand dunes, cultivated land, maquis, open coniferous woodlands, pastures, and cliff tops. It is also tolerant of heavy grazing (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010).In Russia it grows in steppe and semi-deserts, on sandy soils. Can occur as a weedy plant in fields. It is an annual species that grows up to 20 cm.

threats:
There is no information on specific threats for this species.

conservationAction:
There is no information on conservation measures available.No germplasm accessions are reported by EURISCO to be held in European genebanks (EURISCO Catalogue 2010).

useAndTrade:
M. meyeri is a potential gene donor for the cultivated crops M. arabica (spotted medic), M. polymorpha (bur medic), and M. sativa ssp. sativa (alfalfa).


taxonomicNotes:
Medicago minima (L.) Bartal. belongs to the section Spirocarpos, subsection Leptospirae. It is a secondary wild relative of the cultivated crops M. arabica (L.) Huds. (spotted medic), and M. polymorpha L. (bur medic), and a tertiary wild relative of cultivated alfalfa, M. sativa L. ssp. sativa (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010).

redListCategoryRationale:
European regional assessment: Least Concern (LC) EU 27 regional assessment: Least Concern (LC) Medicago minima due to its very widespread nature and the absence of known threats is classified as Least Concern.

range:
M. minima is native to the majority of European countries, and is also found across temperate regions in Asia and northern Africa. It is widely naturalised throughout Russia, Australasia and North and South America (Al-Atawneh et al. 2009, USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010). In France it is widespread, occurs in the majority of departments. Not recorded in the northern departments of Nord, Aube and   Territoire de Belfort (Association Tela Botanica 2010) and in the UK it is confined to East Anglia and the southeast coast (Preston et al. 2002). Alien occurrences have been recorded within the rest of England, patchy in distribution (Preston et al. 2002).

population:
The population size is large and widespread throughout its range (Al-Atawneh et al. 2009, USDA, ARS, National Genetic  Resources Program 2010). Its population trend is considered stable.In the UK according to Preston et al. (2002), this species is becoming less prevalent in coastal areas due to habitat destruction.

habitat:
M. minima prefers dry soils and grows in an array of different habitats, including moist grassy banks, woodland edges, rocky limestone slopes, steppe, sand dunes, cultivated land, maquis, open coniferous woodlands, pastures, and cliff tops. It is also tolerant of heavy grazing (Al-Atawneh et al. 2009).  In the UK this lowland species grows in dry, open, sandy and gravelly areas (Preston et al. 2002).

threats:
There appears to be no major threats to this species.

conservationAction:
M. minima   is a widespread species, with a large number of accessions available in gene banks (Prosperi et al. 2001, Al-Atawneh et al. 2009).Three Red List assessments have been made for M. minimia by Colling (2005), Gärdenfors (2005), and Cheffings and Farrell (2006). The two assessments in 2005 found the species to be Endangered, but the 2006 assessment found it to be Vulnerable, indicating that populations were recovering (BGCI 2009).EURISCO reports 105 germplasm accessions held in European genebanks, 53 of which are reported to be of wild or weedy origin. Of the wild accessions, 34 originate from within Europe (EURISCO Catalogue 2010).

useAndTrade:
M. minima is a potential gene donor for the cultivated crops M. arabica (spotted medic), M. polymorpha (bur medic), and M. sativa ssp. sativa (alfalfa).


taxonomicNotes:
Medicago monspeliaca (L.) Trautv. belongs to section Buceras, subsection Reflexae, and is a tertiary wild relative of cultivated alfalfa, M. sativa L. ssp. sativa (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010).

redListCategoryRationale:
European regional assessment: Least Concern (LC) EU 27 regional assessment: Least Concern (LC) Medicago monospeliaca due to its very widespread nature and the absence of known threats is classified as Least Concern.

range:
M. monspeliaca is native to most of southern Europe, as well as some central and eastern regions. It is also found in many parts of northern Africa and is distributed through many of the temperate regions in Asia (Al-Atawneh et al. 2009, USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010). In France it is relatively widespread in the southern half of the country excluding the far southwestern departments. Also occurs in the northern departments of Loir-et-Cher, Loiret, Essonne, Yvelines, Aisne,   Val-d'Oise,   Val-de-Marne, Paris and   Hauts-de-Seine (Association Tela Botanica 2010).

population:
The population size is large and widespread throughout its range (Al-Atawneh et al. 2009, USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010).

habitat:
M. monspeliaca is most often found growing in fallow fields, cultivated fields and roadsides, but also grows among gravel, sand dunes, scrub, forests and rocky limestone slopes (Al-Atawneh et al. 2009).

conservationAction:
In France this species is protected in the central region of Auvergne, the western region of Poitou-Charentes and the northern region of Île-de-France (Association Tela Botanica 2010).    EURISCO reports seven germplasm accessions held in European genebanks, four of which are reported to be of wild or weedy origin. Of the wild accessions, none originate from within Europe (EURISCO Catalogue 2010).

useAndTrade:
M. monspeliaca is a potential gene donor for cultivated alfalfa, M. sativa ssp. sativa.


taxonomicNotes:
Medicago murex Willd. belongs to the section Spirocarpos, subsection Pachyspireae. It is a secondary wild relative of cultivated barrel clover, M. truncatula Gaertn., and a tertiary wild relative of cultivated alfalfa, M. sativa L. ssp. sativa (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010). This species contains the subspecies Medicago murex Willd. ssp. sphaerocarpos (Bertol.) K. A. Lesins & J. Lesins, which is native to Europe.

redListCategoryRationale:
European regional assessment: Least Concern (LC) EU 27 regional assessment: Least Concern (LC)      Medicago murex is       a relatively common species and there appears to be no major   threats. It  is estimated that populations are  stable; therefore it is  regionally  assessed     in  Europe as Least Concern.

range:
M. murex is native to much of southern Europe, and is also found in certain regions of western Asia and northern Africa (Al-Atawneh et al. 2009, USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010). In France it is confined to the southern department of Tarn, the southeastern departments of   Bouches-du-Rhône and Var and the two departments of Corsica (Association Tela Botanica 2000-2010).

habitat:
M. murex grows on sandy, calcareous soils, in fields, light woodlands and marginal lands (Al-Atawneh et al. 2009).

threats:
This is a relatively common species and there appears to be no major threats. It is found in several habitats which are not threatened within its region (Al-Atawneh et al. 2009). It is possibly threatened due to habitat erosion, and grows in regions threatened by climate change (Prosperi et al. 2001).

conservationAction:
M. murex   has few accessions available in gene banks.     EURISCO reports 35 germplasm accessions held in European genebanks, 22 of which are reported to be of wild or weedy origin. Of the wild accessions, 21 originate from within Europe. These 21 wild accessions originate from the following European countries: Spain (four), France (four), Germany (one) Italy (nine) and Portugal (three) (EURISCO Catalogue 2010).

useAndTrade:
M. murex is a potential gene donor for the cultivated crops barrel clover, M. truncatula, and alfalfa, M. sativa ssp. sativa.


taxonomicNotes:
Medicago orbicularis (L.) Bartal. belongs to section Orbiculares, and is a tertiary wild relative of cultivated alfalfa, M. sativa L. ssp. sativa (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010).

redListCategoryRationale:
European regional assessment: Least Concern (LC) EU 27 regional assessment: Least Concern (LC)      Medicago orbicularis is        a very common species and there appears to be no major   threats. It  is estimated that populations are  stable; therefore it is   regionally  assessed     in  Europe as Least Concern.

range:
M. orbicularis is native to southeastern Europe, as well as parts of southwest and eastern Europe. It is also found in many temperate regions in western and central Asia, as well as many parts of north Africa, and Ethiopia. It is naturalized in certain areas of Asia and Europe, and has been widely naturalized in Australia and North America (Al-Atawneh et al. 2009, USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010). In France it is widespread in the southern half of the country but less largely absent from the far northern, northwestern and northeastern departments (Association Tela Botanica 2000–2010).

population:
The population size is large and widespread throughout its range (Al-Atawneh et al. 2009, USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010) and its popultaion trend is considered stable.

habitat:
M. orbicularis is an annual herb, flowering between April and July (Duke 1981). It grows in a variety of habitats, including hills, open forest, agricultural fields and edges, dense maquis, cliffs and steep rocky places, river banks, meadows, pastures, roadsides and dry river beds (Al-Atawneh et al. 2009). It grows as a weed in lawns, but changes its growth habit based on the dryness of the habitat. It is intolerant of extreme heat and cold, requiring a warm temperate climate with mild winters. It grows best on well drained, rich loam soils, but will grow on any soil with enough moisture. It tolerates a mean annual rainfall of 800 mm, an average temperature of 18.7ºC and pH between 6.5 and 8.0 (Duke 1981).

threats:
This is a common species and there appears to be no major threats. It is found in several habitats which are not threatened within its region (Al-Atawneh et al. 2009).

conservationAction:
M. orbicularis   is a widespread species, with a large number of accessions available in gene banks (Prosperi et al. 2001, Al-Atawneh et al. 2009).In France this species is protected in the central/western region of Limousin (Association Tela Botanica 2010).    EURISCO reports 166 germplasm accessions held in European genebanks, 110 of which are reported to be of wild or weedy origin. Of the wild accessions, 93 originate from within Europe (EURISCO Catalogue 2010).

useAndTrade:
M. orbicularis can be grown as a forage crop but is considered to be of rather poor quality. It can also be used as green manure (Duke 1981), and is a potential gene donor for the cultivated crop alfalfa, M. sativa ssp. sativa.


taxonomicNotes:
Medicago phrygia (Boiss. & Balansa) E. Small belongs to section Buceras, subsection Erectae, and&#is a tertiary wild relative of cultivated alfalfa, M. sativa L. ssp. sativa (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010).

redListCategoryRationale:
European regional assessment: Not Applicable (NA)EU 27 regional assessment: Not Applicable (NA)This species is mainly distributed in the Middle-East and is only marginal in Europe. It is therefore considered as Not Applicable.

range:
M. phrygia has a relatively small distribution, being found only in Turkey and a selection of countries surrounding it (Iran, Iraq, Syria) (Al-Atawneh et al. 2009, USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010).

population:
The population levels in Europe are unknown.

habitat:
M. phrygia is found in a variety of habitats, including roadsides, pastures, steppe, igneous slopes, gravel banks near water, wadis and depressions, woodland and scrub, arable fields and fallow fields (Al-Atawneh et al. 2009).

threats:
The species occurs in Europe only in the East Aegean island, so is possible threatened by the rapid increase in tourism in these islands.

conservationAction:
There is no known active conservation action in Europe.

useAndTrade:
M. phrygia is a potential gene donor for cultivated alfalfa, M. sativa ssp. sativa.


taxonomicNotes:
Medicago pironae Vis. is a tertiary wild relative of M. sativa L., commonly known as alfalfa. It belongs to the section Medicago (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010).

redListCategoryRationale:
European regional assessment: Near Threatened (NT) EU 27 regional assessment: Near Threatened (NT)  Medicago pironae has a very restricted distribution, limited habitat requirements, and  the habitats where it is found are threatened, therefore it is assessed as Near Threatened. However  there is a need for more detailed information on population size and trends to strengthen the assessment.

range:
M. pironae is only native to Italy and the countries making up the Former Yugoslavia (Al-Atawneh et al. 2009, USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010). In Italy it occurs in two regions in the northeast of the country.

population:
This species is rare only found on the Italian/Slovenian border, and there is no population size data available but the fact that it is so restricted in terms of distribution mean the population size is likely to be limited.

habitat:
M. pironae grows on rocky hillsides in sub-mountain areas, often among low bushes (Al-Atawneh et al. 2009). In Italy it is found on river banks. The species' habitat is fragile and very vulnerable.

threats:
The species is threatened by agricultural activities, urbanization, tourism, and trekking.

conservationAction:
M. pironae   has few accessions available in gene banks, and is rare in the wild (Prosperi et al. 2001). In the Italian Red List, the population is one of the regions of low risk. It occurs in a Site of Community Interst (SCI). This species has been cultivated ex situ.EURISCO reports only one germplasm accession held in European genebanks, this accession is reported to be of wild or weedy origin. However, the wild accession does not originate from within Europe (EURISCO Catalogue 2010).

useAndTrade:
M. pironae is a tertiary wild relative and potential gene donor to cultivated alfalfa, M. sativa ssp. sativa.


taxonomicNotes:
Medicago polyceratia (L.) Trautv. belongs to section Buceras, subsection Erectae, and is a tertiary wild relative of cultivated alfalfa, M. sativa L. ssp. sativa (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010). It has one subspecies native to Europe, Medicago polyceratia (L.) Trautv. ssp. amandiana (Samp.) Greuter & Burdet.In France, Spain and Portugal it is known as Trigonella polyceratia. This species is one of the former Trigonella species that has recently been moved to Medicago.

redListCategoryRationale:
European regional assessment: Least Concern (LC) EU 27 regional assessment: Least Concern (LC)      Medicago polyceratia is         a moderately common species and there appears to be no major    threats. It  is estimated that populations are  stable; therefore  it is   regionally  assessed     in  Europe as Least Concern.

range:
M. polyceratia has a fairly narrow distribution, occurring only in France, Portugal and Spain in Europe, and Algeria, Morocco and Tunisia in Africa (Al-Atawneh et al. 2009, USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010). In France it is confined to the southern department of   Pyrénées Orientales, the southeastern departments of Vaucluse,   Bouches-du-Rhône and Alpes-Maritimes and the northeastern department of Bas-Rhin (Association Tela Botanica 2010).

population:
The population size is relatively large and within its range (Al-Atawneh et al. 2009, USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010).

habitat:
M. polyceratia is found on mountains, hills, slopes, fields and fallow fields (Al-Atawneh et al. 2009).

threats:
This is a moderately common species and there appears to be no major threats. It is found in several habitats which are not threatened within its region (Al-Atawneh et al. 2009).

conservationAction:
EURISCO reports only one germplasm accession held in European genebanks, this accession is reported to be of wild or weedy origin. However, the wild accession does not originate from within Europe (EURISCO Catalogue 2010).

useAndTrade:
M. polyceratia is a potential gene donor for cultivated alfalfa, M. sativa L. ssp. sativa.


taxonomicNotes:
Medicago polymorpha L. belongs to the section Spirocarpos, subsection Leptospireae. It is a secondary wild relative of the cultivated crop M. arabica (L.) Huds., commonly known as spotted medic, and a tertiary wild relative of cultivated alfalfa, M. sativa L. ssp. sativa (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010). The species contains three subspecies native to Europe: Medicago polymorpha L. ssp. polymorpha, Medicago polymorpha L. ssp. microcarpa (Urb.) O. Bolòs, Vigo. Masalles & Ninot, and Medicago polymorpha L. ssp. polycarpa (Willd.) Romero Zarco (Euro+Med PlantBase 2010).

redListCategoryRationale:
European regional assessment: Least Concern (LC)  EU 27 regional assessment: Least Concern (LC)  Medicago polymorpha is possibly  the most common medic species and its population size is very large and its  has a wide range. There appears to be no major threats and it is therefore assessed in Europe as Least Concern.

range:
M. polymorpha is native to most of southern and central Europe, and is also found throughout much of temperate Asia and certain regions of north Africa. It has been naturalised worldwide (Al-Atawneh et al. 2009, USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010). In France it is widespread, occurs in all but 13 departments across the whole country (Association Tela Botanica 2010) and in the UK it occurs along the East Anglian and southern coastline (Preston et al. 2002). It also has a patchy distribution across the rest of England but these occurrences are recorded as alien (Preston et al. 2002).

population:
Medicago polymorpha is possibly the most common medic species. Population size is very large and its has a wide range (Al-Atawneh et al. 2009, USDA, ARS, National Genetic  Resources Program 2010).In the UK according to Preston et al. (2002), this species has declined along the coast.

habitat:
M. polymorpha is a winter annual herb and flowers in the summer and autumn. It grows on many soil types, but favours moist, well-drained, slightly alkaline, loamy soils. It is found in shaded areas, next to streams, in pastures (often in areas where forests have been cleared), and as a weed in cultivated areas. It is intolerant of frost and soils heavily charged with salts, but tolerates mean annual rainfall of 860 mm, temperatures between 10.5ºC and 27.5ºC, and soil pH between 5.3 and 8.2 (Duke 1981).  In the UK this lowland species prefers open sandy and gravelly habitats in coastal areas (Preston et al. 2002).

threats:
There appears to be no major threats. It is found in a range of habitats which do not appear to be threatened (Al-Atawneh et al. 2009).An assessment by Cheffings and Farrell (2006) found M. polymorpha fell into the category Least Concern (BGCI 2009).

conservationAction:
M. polymorpha   is a widespread species, with a large number of accessions available in gene banks (Prosperi et al. 2001).    EURISCO reports 485 germplasm accessions held in European genebanks, 396 of which are reported to be of wild or weedy origin. Of the wild accessions, 356 originate from within Europe (EURISCO Catalogue 2010).

useAndTrade:
M. polymorpha can be used as a forage crop, although sheep tend to fatten up rapidly when fed on it, and it is known to cause bloating in other animals. It can also be used to prevent soil erosion in the winter months (Duke 1981), and could potentially be used as a gene donor for cultivated alfalfa, M. sativa ssp. sativa.


taxonomicNotes:
Medicago praecox DC. belongs to the section Spirocarpos, subsection Leptospireae. It is a secondary wild relative of the cultivated crops M. arabica (L.) Huds. (spotted medic), and M. polymorpha L. (bur medic), and a tertiary wild relative of cultivated alfalfa, M. sativa L. ssp. sativa (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010).

redListCategoryRationale:
European regional assessment: Least Concern (LC)  EU 27 regional assessment: Least Concern (LC)  Medicago praecox  is a common medic species, population size is large and its  has a wide range. There appears to be no major     threats and it is therefore assessed in Europe as  Least  Concern.

range:
M. praecox is native to much of southern Europe, as well as certain regions of western Asia. It is naturalised in Australia and North America (Al-Atawneh et al. 2009, USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010). In France it occurs in seven southern departments (Pyrénées Orientales, Aude, Aveyron,   Hérault, Gard,   Bouches-du-Rhône and Var) and Corsica (Association Tela Botanica 2010).

population:
Medicago praecox is a common medic species, population size is large and its has a wide range (Al-Atawneh et al. 2009, USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010).

habitat:
M. praecox grows in dry, sandy, rocky, infertile soils on hillsides, fields, and among rocks (Al-Atawneh et al. 2009).

threats:
There appears to be no major threats. It is found in a range of habitats which do not appear  to be threatened (Al-Atawneh et al. 2009).  It is possibly threatened due to habitat erosion, and grows in regions threatened by climate change (Prosperi et al. 2001).

conservationAction:
M. praecox has few accessions available in gene banks. EURISCO reports 17 germplasm accessions held in European genebanks, 15 of which are reported to be of wild or weedy origin. Of the wild accessions, 14 originate from within Europe: two of which are from Bulgaria, seven from Cyprus, three from France and two from Greece (EURISCO Catalogue 2010).

useAndTrade:
M. praecox is a potential gene donor for the cultivated crops M. arabica (spotted medic), M. polymorpha (bur medic), and alfalfa, M. sativa ssp. sativa.


taxonomicNotes:
Medicago procumbens Besser belongs to section Medicago, and is a secondary wild relative of cultivated alfalfa, M. sativa L. ssp. sativa (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010), however, according to Atawneh et al. (2009) this taxon is a synonym of Medicago sativa ssp. falcata (L.) Arcang.

redListCategoryRationale:
European regional assessment: Data Deficient (DD)  EU 27 regional assessment: Data Deficient (DD)  The taxonomic distinction of Medicago procumbens is uncertain so it is diffcult to precisely estimate population levels and threat, although there are no known threats, therefore it is assessed as Data Deficient.

range:
M. procumbens is widely distributed, being found in almost all of Europe and most of the temperate regions throughout Asia (Al-Atawneh et al. 2009, USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010). However, it appears to  only be found in the western part of Ukraine near Galicia at the Carpathian mountains.

population:
Medicago procumbens is a rare medic species, although population sizes are moderate and it has a fairly narrow range (Al-Atawneh et al. 2009, USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010).

habitat:
M. procumbens generally favours dry, boreal and steppe conditions, and grows primarily on calcareous rocks (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010).In Ukraine it is found on meadows and forest clearings, and near villages.

threats:
There appears to be no major threats. It is found in a range of habitats which do not appear to be threatened but cutting of the forests in this area is a potential threat (Al-Atawneh et al. 2009).

conservationAction:
No germplasm accessions are reported by EURISCO to be held in European genebanks (EURISCO Catalogue 2010), but it is likely to be passively conserved in existing protected areas.

useAndTrade:
M. procumbens is a potential gene donor for cultivated alfalfa, M. sativa ssp. sativa.


taxonomicNotes:
Medicago prostrata Jacq. is a primary wild relative of the cultivated species Medicago sativa L. ssp. sativa, commonly known as alfalfa (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010).&# There are three subspecies of M. prostrata native to Europe: M. prostrata Jacq. ssp. prostrata, M. prostrata ssp. pseudorupestris (Hayek) Micevski, and M. prostrata ssp. vukovicii Micevski (Euro+Med PlantBase 2010).

redListCategoryRationale:
European regional assessment: Least Concern (LC)  EU 27 regional assessment: Least Concern (LC)  The exact population levels and  threats to Medicago prostrata are  uncertain, but where known the  species is regarded as stable and therefore assessed as Least Concern.

range:
M. prostrata is found in central and southeastern Europe (Al-Atawneh et al. 2009, USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010).

population:
Medicago prostrata is a moderately common medic species with a  fairly wide range  (Al-Atawneh et al. 2009, USDA, ARS, National Genetic  Resources Program 2010). In the Czech Republic it is only a few localities known in the south Moravia region, and in Italy it is not common, but where found populations appears to be stable.

habitat:
M. prostrata grows on limestone rocks and scree, and is found on rocky hillsides, waste grounds and riversides (Al-Atawneh et al. 2009). In the Czech Republic it is found on  hot sunny slopes, rocky places and similarly in Italy it is found on sunny slopes, secondary successions, calcareous soils.

threats:
There appears to be no major threats but cutting of the forests in this area is a potential threat (Al-Atawneh et al. 2009).

conservationAction:
M. prostrata #  has few accessions available in gene banks. EURISCO reports two germplasm accessions held in European genebanks, only one of which is reported to be of wild or weedy origin. This wild accession originates from Czech Republic. This accession is stored in Genebank, Leibniz Institute of Plant Genetics and Crop Plant Research, Germany (EURISCO Catalogue 2010).

useAndTrade:
M. prostrata is a potential gene donor to the cultivated species Medicago sativa ssp. sativa, commonly known as alfalfa.


taxonomicNotes:
Medicago rigidula (L.) All. belongs to the section Spirocarpos, subsection Pachyspireae. It is a secondary wild relative of the cultivated crop barrel clover (M. truncatula Gaertn.), and a tertiary wild relative of cultivated alfalfa, M. sativa L. ssp. sativa (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010).

redListCategoryRationale:
European regional assessment: Least Concern (LC) EU 27 regional assessment: Least Concern (LC)Due to the widespread distribution of this species, large population sizes and lack of known threats it is classified as Least Concern.

range:
M. rigidula is native to much of southern and eastern Europe, as well as areas in the Caucasus, central Asia and northern Africa. It is naturalised in several regions in central Europe   (Al-Atawneh et al. 2009, USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010). In Slovakia it only reliably occurs in southwestern Slovakia on southern slopes of the Burda Mts. (especially in the Burdov Nature Reserve), but the population trend is stable. In France it is widespread, occuring in the majority of departments in the southern half of the country but largely absent from departments to the far north, northeast and northwest (Association Tela Botanica 2000-2010).

population:
The exact population size of Medicago rigidula is unknown, but the species is considered common throughout its range and populations are stable.

habitat:
M. rigidula grows on sandy, clay, volcanic and calcareous soils in low mid-mountain zones, fields, rocky areas, woodlands, scrub, pasture, grassland, and steppe conditions (Al-Atawneh et al. 2009).

threats:
There appears to be no major threats. However in Slovakia it is potentially endangered by afforestation (Maglocký and Svobodová 1999).

conservationAction:
M. rigidula   is a widespread species, with a large number of accessions available in gene banks (Prosperi et al. 2001).In Slovakia, Medicago rigidula is included in the Red list as Critically Endangered (CR) (Feráková et al. 2001).    EURISCO reports 97 germplasm accessions held in European genebanks, 52 of which are reported to be of wild or weedy origin. Of the wild accessions, 41 originate from within Europe (EURISCO Catalogue 2010).

useAndTrade:
M. rigidula is a potential gene donor for the cultivated crops barrel clover (M. truncatula), and alfalfa, M. sativa ssp. sativa.


taxonomicNotes:
Medicago rotata Boiss. belongs to the section Spirocarpos, subsection Rotatae. It is a secondary wild relative of the cultivated crop M. scutellata (L.) Mill., commonly known as snail medic, and a tertiary wild relative of cultivated alfalfa, M. sativa L. ssp. sativa (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010).

redListCategoryRationale:
European regional assessment: Least Concern (LC)EU 27 regional assessment: Least Concern (LC)Medicago rotata is common, found widely in the Middle-East. The edge of its distribution falls in Cyprus, where it does not seem to be particularly threatened. It is therefore considered as Least Concern.

range:
M. rotata is native to much of western Asia and is also found in Cyprus and Turkey. It is naturalised in Morocco (Al-Atawneh et al. 2009, USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010).

population:
The exact population size of Medicago rotata is unknown, but the species is considered common throughout its range and populations are stable.

habitat:
M. rotata grows on terra rosa soils and rocky ground, and in general is found as a field weed (Al-Atawneh et al. 2009). It also occurs in pastures.

threats:
The main threat is overgrazing, as it is very appreciated by the animals. It is possibly threatened due to habitat erosion, and grows in regions threatened by climate change (Prosperi et al. 2001).

conservationAction:
M. rotata   has few accessions available in gene banks, mainly originating from Syria. As this species might have potential as a crop in its own rights, it would be important to have more material from Cyprus sub-populations.    EURISCO reports three germplasm accessions held in European genebanks, only one of which is reported to be of wild or weedy origin. This wild accession does not originate from within Europe (EURISCO Catalogue 2010).

useAndTrade:
M. rotata is a potential gene donor for the cultivated crops M. scutellata (snail medic), and M. sativa ssp. sativa (alfalfa). In Australia, this is developed as a pasture crop in its own right.


taxonomicNotes:
Medicago rugosa Desr. belongs to the section Spirocarpos, subsection Rotatae. It is a secondary wild relative of the cultivated  crop M. scutellata (L.) Mill.,  commonly known as snail medic, and a tertiary wild relative of cultivated alfalfa, M. sativa L. ssp. sativa (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources  Program 2010).

redListCategoryRationale:
European regional assessment: Least Concern (LC)EU 27 regional assessment: Least Concern (LC)Medicago  rugosa is common, found widely in the Middle-East and North Africa, population levels are stable and there are no specific threats. Therefore it is considered as Least Concern.

range:
M. rugosa is only native to Greece, Italy and Malta in Europe, but is also found in parts of northern Africa and western Asia. It is naturalised in France, Portugal and Spain (Al-Atawneh et al. 2009, USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010).

population:
The exact population size of Medicago rugosa is unknown, but the species is considered common throughout its range and populations are stable.

habitat:
M. rugosa is found in two types of habitat. The first is disturbed habitats and fallow fields, where it grows on heavy clay soils. The second is rocky fields and maquis, where it grows on limestone (Al-Atawneh et al. 2009).

threats:
There appears to be no major threats. It is possibly threatened due to habitat erosion, and grows in regions threatened by climate change (Prosperi et al. 2001).

conservationAction:
M. rugosa has few accessions available in gene banks. EURISCO reports 18 germplasm accessions held in European genebanks, none of which are reported to be of wild or weedy origin (EURISCO Catalogue 2010).

useAndTrade:
M. rugosa is a potential gene donor for the cultivated crops M. scutellata (snail medic), and M. sativa ssp. sativa (alfalfa).


taxonomicNotes:
Medicago rupestris M. Bieb. belongs to section Medicago and is a tertiary wild relative of cultivated alfalfa, M. sativa L (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010).

redListCategoryRationale:
European regional assessment: Endangered (EN) EU 27 regional assessment: Not Evaluated (NE)  In Europe, Medicago rupestris is confined to the lower mountain belt in the southern part of Crimea. The species' habitat is under threat from tourism development, recreational activities and urbanisation which leads to a decline in habitat quality and area. The extent of occurrence (EOO) is smaller than 5,000 km2 and the area of occupancy (AOO) is below 500 km2. It is found at less than five locations. Moreover, the number of mature individuals is less than 2,500 with less than 250 per subpopulation. Therefore, the species is classed as Endangered. A rescue effect from the limited Caucasus populations is unlikely.It does not occur within the EU 27.

range:
M. rupestris is native to Crimea and north Caucasus (Al-Atawneh et al. 2009). In Europe it is found in the lower mountain belt in the southern part of Crimea in less than five locations. The extent of occurrence (EOO) is 4,900 km2 # and the area of occupancy (AOO) is 490 km2.

population:
Population trend is suspected to be decreasing. The number of mature individuals is thought to be less than 2,500 with less than 250 per subpopulation.

habitat:
M. rupestris grows in lower mountain zones on calcareous rocks (Al-Atawneh et al. 2009).

threats:
The area of this species is under intense tourist development, recreational activities and urbanisation, the habitat of this species is therefore declining.

conservationAction:
M. rupestris has few accessions available in gene banks, and is rare in the wild (Prosperi et al. 2001).No germplasm accessions are reported by EURISCO to be held in European genebanks (EURISCO Catalogue 2010).

useAndTrade:
M. rupestris is a tertiary wild relative of M. sativa ssp. sativa (alfalfa), and thus is a potential gene donor.


taxonomicNotes:
The species Medicago sativa L. belongs to the section Medicago, and is a primary wild relative of the cultivated crop alfalfa, M. sativa L. ssp. sativa (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010). There are five subspecies M. sativa native to Europe: M. sativa ssp. caerulea (Ledeb.) Schmalh., M. sativa ssp. falcata (L.) Arcang., M. sativa ssp. glomerata (Balb.) Tutin, M. sativa ssp. microcarpa Urb., and M. sativa ssp. varia (Martyn) Arcang.

redListCategoryRationale:
European regional assessment: Least Concern (LC)EU 27 regional assessment: Least Concern (LC) Due to the widespread nature of this species, and no known threats, it is classified as Least Concern.

range:
M. sativa is rare in the wild, except in Caucasus, the Iberian Peninsula, and Turkey, but is widely naturalised via escapes from cultivation and is now cultivated throughout the world (Al-Atawneh et al. 2009, USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources 2010). In France it is widespread, occurs in all departments except Aisne where it has not been recorded (Association Tela Botanica 2000-2010). In  the UK Medicago sativa ssp. falcata is confined to East Anglia in England, however it also has a sparse and patchy distribution throughout the rest of England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland but these occurrences are recorded as alien (Preston et al. 2002). In Ireland Medicago sativa ssp. falcate occurs in only two localities in the west of the country and both of these occurrences are recorded as alien (Preston et al. 2002). In Denmark: both M. sativa ssp. falcata and M. sativa ssp. sativa occur within this country however only M. sativa ssp. falcata is native (P. Wind pers. comm. 2010).

population:
The exact population size of wild Medicago sativa is unknown, but the species is considered common throughout its range and populations are stable. However, in the UK according to Preston et al. (2002), Medicago sativa ssp. falcata has declined in coastal areas due to habitat loss. It is also unable to cope with animal grazing and it can hybridise with M. sativa ssp. sativa - these factors also play a role in its decline (Preston et al. 2002).

habitat:
M. sativa is rare in the wild, but specimens are generally found in open habitats, such as roadsides and field borders. However, these are frequently plants which have escaped from agriculture. It requires a soil pH of at least 6.0, and can be found growing up to elevations of 2,400 m (FAO 2010). When growing in coastal areas, M. sativa occurs on sandy and sandy-loam soil types, whereas in mountainous regions it tends to grow on clay and heavier clay-loam soil types. Generally Medicago species grow best on alkaline soils which are well drained (Bennett et al. 1998).M. sativa grows on moderately fertile calcareous soils, commonly in open habitats. It is found in dry semi-desert to agricultural land, and less frequently in scrub and woodland (Al-Atawneh et al. 2009).M. sativa is a perennial herb which flowers between May and July. It grows on many different soil types, but favours well-drained loamy soil and does not tolerate waterlogging or acid soils. It can tolerate an average annual rainfall of 1030 mm, temperatures between 4.3ºC and 28.5ºC, and soil pH between 4.3 and 8.7 (Duke 1981).  In the UK Medicago sativa ssp. falcata is a lowland species with a preference for calcareous soils and sands; it grows on grassy heaths, sea-walls, roadsides and tracks (Preston et al. 2002).

threats:
There are no know specific threats to the wild forms of the species, apart from the unknown consequences of withspread hybridisation with the crop. Research by Al-Atawneh et al. (2009) suggests that M. sativa is not threatened.

conservationAction:
M. sativa, as well as the majority of Mediterranean species of Medicago, has germplasm stored in numerous genebanks, notably the Australian Medicago Genetic Resources Centre (AMGRC) in Adelaide, Australia, the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Agricultural Research Service (ARS) in the USA, and the International Centre for Agricultural Research in the Dry Areas (ICARDA) in Syria (Prosperi et al. 2001).M. sativa ssp. falcata is classified as Least Concern (LC) in Denmark (Den Danske Rødliste 2010).    EURISCO reports 4,084 germplasm accessions held in European genebanks, 250 of which are reported to be of wild or weedy origin. Of the wild accessions, 194 originate from within Europe (EURISCO Catalogue 2010).

useAndTrade:
In its none wild form, M. sativa (alfalfa) is primarily grown as animal feed, either as high quality fodder or for direct grazing. It is often dehydrated to form pellets, which are then used as a nitrogen supplement for dairy animals and non-ruminants. However, it has a number of beneficial uses in soil which could potentially be improved using wild types, such as nitrogen fixation, soil stabilisation and soil enhancement. It can also aid in lowering water tables, reducing the salinity of drylands and reducing nitrate leaching, as well as providing a disease or weed break in the process of crop rotation (Prosperi et al. 2001). Furthermore, wild types of M. sativa could be potential gene donors to cultivated alfalfa, M. sativa ssp. sativa.


taxonomicNotes:
Medicago saxatilis M. Bieb belongs to the section Medicago, and is a secondary wild relative of the widely cultivated species M. sativa L. ssp. sativa, commonly known as alfalfa (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010).

redListCategoryRationale:
European regional assessment: Endangered (EN)EU 27 regional assessment: Not Evaluated (NE)In Europe, this species is confined to the lower mountain belt in the southern part of Crimea. Its habitat is under threat from tourism development, recreational activities and urbanization which leads to a decline in habitat quality and area. The extent of occurrence (EOO) is smaller than 5,000 km² and the area of occupancy (AOO) is below 500 km². It is thought to be found at five locations only. Moreover, the number of mature individuals is less than 2,500 with less than 250 per subpopulation. Therefore, the species is classed as Endangered. A rescue effect from the limited Caucasus populations is unlikely.It does not occur within the EU 27.

range:
M. saxatilis is endemic to Crimea (Al-Atawneh et al. 2009, USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010). This species is a narrow localized endemic and very limited by its ecological preferences. It should be noted that Euro+Med Plantbase (2006) and Flora Europea regard Medicago rhodopea as a synonym of this species and that taxon is present in Bulgaria, but Al-Atawneh et al. (2009) regard them as separate distinct species. The extent of occurrence (EOO) is 4,900 km2 and the area of occupancy (AOO) is 490 km2. The species is known from five locations.

population:
Population trend is suspected to be decreasing. The number of mature individuals is thought to be less than 2,500 with less than 500 per subpopulation.

habitat:
M. saxatilis grows on calcareous rocky sites in dry meadows in mid-mountain zones (Al-Atawneh et al. 2009).Calcareous places on mountain slopes only in the middle belt between approximately 300-500 m.

threats:
The area where the species occurs is under threat from intense tourism development, urbanisation and recreational activities.

conservationAction:
M. saxatilis, as well as the majority of Mediterranean species of Medicago, has germplasm stored in numerous genebanks, notably the Australian Medicago Genetic Resources Centre (AMGRC) in Adelaide, Australia, the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Agricultural Research Service (ARS) in the USA, and the International Centre for Agricultural Research in the Dry Areas (ICARDA) in Syria (Prosperi et al. 2001).However, no germplasm accessions are reported by EURISCO to be held in European genebanks (EURISCO Catalogue 2010).

useAndTrade:
M. saxatilis is a potential gene donor to the widely cultivated species M. sativa ssp. sativa, commonly known as alfalfa.


taxonomicNotes:
Medicago scutellata (L.) Mill. belongs to the section Spirocarpos, subsection Rotatae. It is a secondary wild relative of several cultivated crops, including M. arabica (L.) Huds. (spotted medic), M. polymorpha L. (bur medic), and M. truncatula Gaertn. (barrel clover), and is a tertiary wild relative of cultivated alfalfa, M. sativa L. ssp. sativa (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010).

redListCategoryRationale:
European regional assessment: Least Concern (LC)EU 27 regional assessment: Least Concern (LC)Medicago scutellata is common, found widely in the Middle-East and north Africa, population  levels are stable and there are no specific threats; therefore it is  considered as Least Concern.

range:
M. scultellata is native to parts of southern and eastern Europe, as well as western Asia and northern Africa. It is naturalised in Austria, Australia and Uruguay (Al-Atawneh et al. 2009, USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010). In France it occurs in the eastern department of Ain, the south and southeastern departments of Aude,   Hérault, Gard,   Drôme, Vaucluse,   Bouches-du-Rhône, Var and Alpes-Maritimes and the two departments of Corsica (Association Tela Botanica 2010).

population:
The exact population size is unknown, but the species is considered relatively common throughout its range and is found in several habitats.

habitat:
M. scutellata is a perennial herb, flowering between May and June. It is found primarily in meadows and wood margins (Duke 1981). However, it also grows in cultivated fields, plains, roadsides, dry hillsides and coastal regions (Al-Atawneh et al. 2009). It thrives on most soil types, particularly heavy and loamy soils. It tolerates mean annual precipitation of 800 mm, temperatures between 11.5ºC and 26.2ºC, and soil pH of between 5.5 and 7.5 (Duke 1981).

conservationAction:
M. scutellata   has few accessions available in gene banks.     EURISCO reports 47 germplasm accessions held in European genebanks, 15 of which are reported to be of wild or weedy origin. Of the wild accessions, 12 originate from within Europe: eight of which originate from Cyprus (stored in Junta de Extremadura, Servicio de Investigación y Desarrollo Tecnológico, Finca la Orden, Spain), one from Germany (stored in Research Institute for Fodder Crops Ltd., Czech Republic) and three from Ukraine (stored in Ustymivka Experimental Station of Plant Production, Ukraine) (EURISCO Catalogue 2010).

useAndTrade:
M. scutellata could be used as a forage crop (Duke 1981), and is a potential gene donor for cultivated alfalfa, M. sativa ssp. sativa.


redListCategoryRationale:
European regional assessment: Least Concern (LC)  EU 27 regional assessment: Least Concern (LC)  Melilotus officinalis is    a common species and there appears to be no major threats. It is  found   in several habitats which are not threatened within Europe,   populations  appear to be stable; therefore, it is regionally assessed   in Europe as  Least Concern.

useAndTrade:
Cultivated for fodder and forage; wild populations may harbour important  genetic       diversity for crop improvement. Also used as a flavouring for food, as a soil improver and is  an important bee plant (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program  2010). This plant has medicinal characteristics.


taxonomicNotes:
There are taxonomic issues with this taxon as it is not recognised in ILDIS (2010) and Flora Iberica treats it as belonging to M. segetalis (Castroviejo et al. 2000).

redListCategoryRationale:
Melilotus segetalis ssp. fallax is endemic to Portugal where it occurs in the estuaries of the rivers Tejo and Sado and in the Algarve region. The extent of occurrence is 1,247 km² and the area of occupancy is 600 km². This plant is rare with small populations between 10 to 100 individuals. The main threats for this subspecies are abandonment of pastoral systems,  urbanisation and golf courses. However, the taxonomic validity of this taxon is disputed and it is therefore assessed as Data Deficient.

range:
Melilotus segetalis ssp. fallax is endemic to Portugal where it occurs in the estuaries of the rivers Tejo and Sado and in the Algarve region (ICN 2006). The extent of occurrence is 1,247 km² and the area of occupancy is 600 km²   (Commission of the European Communities 2009).

population:
This plant is rare with small populations between 10 to 100 individuals (ICN 2006). The population trend is unknown.

habitat:
An annual nitrophile plant that is found in coastal saltmarshes and saline reedbeds. It is characteristic of Stellarietea mediae and has been found in the associations Anacyclo radiati-Hordeetum leporini and more frequently in Spergulario bocconei-Mesembryanthemetum nodiflori (ICN 2006).This plant grows in the following Habitats Directive listed habitats (Commission of the European Communities 2009):1130 Estuaries1160 Large shallow inlets and bays

threats:
The main threats for this taxon are abandonment of pastoral systems, urbanisation and golf courses (Commission of the European Communities 2009).

conservationAction:
Melilotus segetalis ssp. fallax is listed on Annex II of the Habitats Directive. It is legally protected in Portugal. It is necessary to continue fieldwork to find new populations and confirm the known ones, to study the biology and ecology of the subspecies as well as the affects of threats. The sites of the taxon should be managed in a way that ensures temporary flooding (ICN 2006).

useAndTrade:
This is a potential forage species (ICN 2006).


redListCategoryRationale:
European regional assessment: Least Concern (LC) EU 27 regional assessment: Least Concern (LC)This species is widespread, common where it occurs with stable population trends and does not face major threats. It is therefore assessed as Least Concern.

range:
Native to southeastern Europe, and possibly native to middle and southwestern Europe, and Turkey (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010). The exact native distribution is uncertain. The occurrence in Turkey might relate to a different species.

population:
In its range it is common and frequent in dry sunny meadows. Population trend is stable.In Belarus its distribution is scattered.

habitat:
It is found in dry sunny meadows, pastureland.

threats:
Transformation of grasslands might potentially threaten the species but this does not lead to population declines at the moment.

conservationAction:
BGCI (2009) records that its Red List category is NT-A.EURISCO reports 307 germplasm accessions held in European genebanks, 58 of which are reported to be of wild or weedy origin. Of the wild accessions, 45 originate from within Europe (EURISCO Catalogue 2010).

useAndTrade:
Cultivated for fodder and # forage; wild populations may harbour important genetic diversity for crop improvement. Also used as an ornamental and is an important bee plant (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010).

redListAssessors:
Vörösváry, G., Uzundzhalieva, K., Maslovky, O., Vögel, R. & Holubec, V.


taxonomicNotes:
This species is often treated under the synonym Ononis hackelii, for example in the Annexes of the Habitats Directive or in Portugal (ICN 2006). But the accepted name is Ononis maweana Ball. according to ILDIS (2010).

redListCategoryRationale:
Ononis maweana is endemic to the southwest coast of Portugal where its extent of occurrence is 682 km² and the area of occupancy is 900 km². The species has abundant populations far from urbanised areas that  normally hold tens of individuals. The populations have been declining  in the past but are thought to be stable now. Potential threats are the conversion of pastureland into forms of more  intense agricultural use, the replacement of Cork Oak forests with  Eucalyptus plantations, and urban or tourism expansion. It is therefore assessed as Near Threatened approaching Criterion B1b(iii)+2b(iii).

range:
Ononis maweana is endemic to the southwest coast of Portugal where its extent of occurrence is 682 km² and the area of occupancy is 800 km² (ICN 2006, Commission of the European Communities 2009).

population:
The species has abundant populations far from urbanised areas that normally hold tens of individuals. The populations have been declining in the southern part of its range in the last 90 years due to urban expansion of Vila Nova de Milfonte but the trend seems to be stable now (ICN 2006).

habitat:
An annual plant that grows near the sea in sandy soils (Morgan and Leon 1992). The species colonizes different types of grasslands such as open "dehesas", pastures or edges of cereal crops. It can occur at road verges if the ecological conditions are favourable   (ICN 2006).

threats:
Potential threats are the conversion of pastureland into forms of more intense agricultural use, the replacement of Cork Oak forests with Eucalyptus plantations, and urban or tourism expansion (ICN 2006).

conservationAction:
This plant is listed as priority species on Annex II of the Habitats Directive under the synonym Ononis hackelii and under Appendix I of the Convention on the Conservation of European Wildlife and Natural Habitats (Bern Convention) with the name Ononis maweana. It is legally protected in Portugal. This species requires action that maintain the habitat quality, for example, grazing by sheep (ICN 2006).


taxonomicNotes:
Three subspecies of Ornithopus sativus Brot. are native to Europe: O. sativus ssp. isthmocarpus (Coss.) Dostál, O. sativus var. macrorrhynchus Willk. and O. sativus Brot. ssp. sativus (Euro+Med PlantBase 2006).

redListCategoryRationale:
European regional assessment: Least Concern (LC) EU 27 regional assessment: Least Concern (LC)    Listed as Least Concern in view of its wide distribution, presumed large population, no major threats and because it is unlikely to be declining fast enough to qualify for listing in a more threatened category.

range:
Native to southwest France, Portugal, Spain, and northern Africa (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010).In France it occurs in 16 departments in western France, the departments of Somme and   Seine-et-Marne to the north and the department of Bas-Rhin to the east (Association Tela Botanica 2010).

habitat:
It is found in wet meadows, arable land.

threats:
There appears to be no major threats to this spicies.

conservationAction:
It occurs in protected areas.    EURISCO reports 179 germplasm accessions held in European genebanks, nine of which are reported to be of wild or weedy origin. Of the wild accessions, five originate from within Europe. These five wild accessions originate from Denmark (one; stored in Institute for Plant Genetic Resources 'K.Malkov', Bulgaria), Germany (two; one stored in Genebank, Leibniz Institute of Plant Genetics and Crop Plant Research, Germany and the other stored in Institute of Forages, Ukraine) and Portugal (two; stored in Estação Nacional Melhoramento Plantas, Portugal) (EURISCO Catalogue 2010).

useAndTrade:
Cultivated for forage; wild populations may harbour important genetic diversity for crop improvement. Also used as soil improver (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010).


redListCategoryRationale:
European regional assessment: Vulnerable (VU)EU 27 regional assessment: Not Evaluated (NE)This species is found in Norway, northern Siberia, Central Asia (Altai)  and North America. The Norwegian occurrence is the subspecies norvegica  and is very isolated from the other distribution areas by several  thousand kilometres. There are two subpopulations with an extent of occurrence of less than 100 km² and an area of occupancy smaller than 10 km². In total there are less than 2,500 mature individuals which experienced an ongoing decline of 20% in two generations (14 years), however both subpopulations seem to be stable now. River regulation was described as a threat in the past but there is no information on any current threats or habitat declines. The taxon is classed as Endangered B1a(ii)b(iii)+2a(ii)b(iii); C1+2a(i)  on the Norwegian Red List, but as there is no information on the current decline and on how many individuals are there in each subpopulation. It is therefore only assessed as Vulnerable D2 assuming that there is a current threat that triggered the Norwegian listing as Endangered.It does not occur within the EU 27.

range:
This species is found in Norway, northern Siberia, Central Asia (Altai) and North America. The Norwegian occurrence is the subspecies norvegica and is very isolated from the other distribution areas by several thousand kilometres. This plant was first found in Habatvuoppebakte by Masi Fi in Kautokeino in 1883. The second population was detected in 1981, in Virdneguoika in Kautokeino (Artsdatabanken 2010).The extent of occurrence is less than 100 km² and the area of occupancy is smaller than 10 km² (Artsdatabanken 2010).

population:
Oxytropis deflexa ssp. norvegica is only known from two small populations with relatively few individuals. The population of Habatvuoppebakte is stable and has been described as relatively large with many scattered individuals over a limited area. The population of Virdneguoika was under threat from river regulation but is stable now (Artsdatabanken 2010).In total there are less than 2,500 mature individuals which experience an ongoing decline of 20% in two generations (14 years).

threats:
River regulation was described as a threat in the past but the populations seem protected now.

conservationAction:
This species is listed under Appendix I of the Convention on the Conservation of European Wildlife and Natural Habitats (Bern Convention). It is classed as Endangered B1a(ii)b(iii)+2a(ii)b(iii); C1+2a(i) in the Norwegian Red List (Artsdatabanken 2010).


taxonomicNotes:
Pisum fulvum is a secondary wild relative of the garden pea Pisum sativum (Maxted and Ambrose 2001).

redListCategoryRationale:
European regional assessment: Near Threatened (NT)EU 27 regional assessment: Near Threatened (NT)Pisum fulvum is restricted in Europe only being found in Cyprus and the Greek Eastern Aegean Islands but within this range it is currently relatively stable but in need of observation therefore is considered in a regional assessment to be Near Threatened.

range:
This species occurs in Cyprus, Greece, Turkey, Syria, Israel and Jordan.

population:
This species is rare in Europe. It is known from two locations in Cyprus and is restricted in Greece.

habitat:
Pisum fulvum is found in rocky, limestone slopes (Davis 1970) often growing between boulders on the edges of cultivation (Maxted and Ambrose 2001).

threats:
This species tends to grow among limestone boulders, is currently threatened by overgrazing and because of its rarity and restricted distribution could be adversely impacted by land management changes, increase in fires and climate change.

conservationAction:
The genus Pisum is listed in  Annex I of the International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food  and Agriculture as part of the garden pea gene pool.  P. fulvum is poorly represented in ex situ  germplasm collections, with only two accessions being held by N.I. Vavilov All-Russian Scientific Research Institute of Plant Industry (St. Petersburg, Russian Federation),    Aegean Agricultural Research Institiute (Menemen, Turkey), ICARDA (Aleppo, Syria) and University of Reading (Reading, UK) gene banks (Sarker et al. 2001).    EURISCO reports 80 germplasm accessions held in European genebanks, 67 of which are reported to be of wild or weedy origin. Of the wild accessions, only two originate from within Europe. One of these wild accessions originates from Cyprus (stored in National (CYPARI) Genebank, Agricultural Research Institute, Ministry of Agriculture, Natural Resources and Environment, Cyprus) and the other from the UK (stored in Institute of Plant Production n.a. V.Y. Yurjev of UAAS, Ukraine) (EURISCO Catalogue 2010).  Although  it occurs in protected areas, there is no active management,  but it is  likely to be passively conserved in      many existing   protected  areas in throughout its range but as its      conservation in  these   sites is not actively monitored it may be subject      to  population  loss  over time from factors such as climate change.

useAndTrade:
Pisum fulvum is a secondary wild relative of P. sativum L ssp. sativum., the cultivated garden pea.This species is likely to be grazed by wild and domesticated species in the pasture and agricultural margins.


taxonomicNotes:
Pisum sativum L. is two subspecies  , sativum and elatius (Bieb.) Aschers. & Graebn, subsp. sativum is split into var. sativum  and arvense (L.) Poiret and subsp. elatius is split into var. elatius, var. brevipedunculatum Davis & Meikle and var. pumilio Meikle (syn. P. humile Boiss. & Noë). &#Of these vars.  sativum, arvense and elatius are cultivated to varying extent, the garden pea is subsp. sativum var.  sativum is the garden pea and all other varieties contribute to its gene pool (Maxted and Ambrose 2001).

redListCategoryRationale:
European regional assessment: Least Concern (LC)EU 27 regional assessment: Least Concern (LC)This wild vareieties of Pisum sativum are widespread in Europe and throughout the range they are currently  relatively stable therefore as a whole the species is considered in a  regional assessment to be Least Concern.

range:
P. sativum is native in parts of east, southeastern and southwestern Europe, as well as in western Asia, the Caucasus, and northern and northeast tropical Africa. The taxon is cultivated worldwide and widely naturalized. (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010)In Portugal, P. sativum ssp. sativum is known to occur in Alto Alentejo (south of the country) (Castroviejo et al. 1999–2000) whereas, P. sativum ssp. elatius is widely distributed (Magos Brehm 2004).In France it is widespread, occurs in the majority of departments although largely absent in central and northwestern departments (Association Tela Botanica 2010).It does not occur on inventory lists in the Netherlands, however it is cultivated widely in the country.

habitat:
Wild Pisum sativum is found primarily in disturbed land on the edges of cultivation (Maxted and Ambrose 2001). In Portugal and Spain, P. sativum tends to occur in pastures, shrublands, track borders and cultivated fields; it is sometimes cultivated or escaped from cultivation (Talavera et al. 1999–2000). P. sativus ssp. elatius occurs as a non ruderal taxon in open areas.

conservationAction:
The genus Pisum is listed in  Annex I of the International Treaty on  Plant Genetic Resources for Food  and Agriculture as part of the garden  pea gene pool.  Overall P. sativum is well represented in ex situ   germplasm collections, with accessions being primarily held by N.I.  Vavilov All-Russian Scientific Research Institute of Plant Industry (St.  Petersburg, Russian Federation),    Aegean Agricultural Research  Institiute (Menemen, Turkey); ICARDA (Aleppo, Syria) and University of  Reading (Reading, UK) gene banks (Maxted and Ambrose 2001). It would be beneficial to review that all varieties are represented by accessions from throughout their geographic range.    EURISCO reports 20,201 germplasm accessions held in European genebanks, 536 of which are reported to be of wild or weedy origin. Of the wild accessions, 85 originate from within Europe (EURISCO Catalogue 2010).  Although   it occurs in protected areas, there is no active management,  but it  is  likely to be passively conserved in      many existing   protected   areas # throughout its range. As its      conservation in  these    sites is not actively monitored it may be subject      to  population   loss  over time from factors such as climate change.In Slovakia, P. sativum ssp. arvense is classified as Endangered (Eliáš P. jun  et al. 2007). P. sativum ssp. elatius is classified as Endangered in Switzerland (Moser et al. 2002).

useAndTrade:
The five varieties of P. sativum that occur in Europe are primary wild relatives of and potential gene donors to the garden pea. The species contains a number of cultivated taxa the two varieties of P. sativum ssp. sativum and ssp. elatius which is cultivated as fodder pea.


taxonomicNotes:
The two genera Coronilla and Securigera are closely related by the shared presence of lomentaceous, dehiscent fruits within the tribe Loteae, within which they form a close relationship that has resulted in taxonomists moving taxa between the two genera (Sokoloff and Lock 2005), as such Securigera varia (L.) Larssen is also widely know under its synonym Coronilla varia L., but Euro+Med PlantBase (2006) have recently accepted that Securigera varia (L.) Larssen should be the accepted name. Of the 12 Securigera species recognised by Euro+Med PlantBase only Securigera varia is cultivated as a forage species. &#&#

redListCategoryRationale:
European regional assessment: Least Concern (LC)EU 27 regional assessment: Least Concern (LC)Securigera varia is a common species and there appear to be no major threats. It is found in several habitats which are not threatened within Europe and populations appear to be stable; therefore, it is regionally assessed as Least Concern.

range:
Native to middle, east, southeastern and southwestern Europe, western and middle Asia, the Caucasus and Siberia (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010).In France Securigera varia is widespread, occurs in all departments with the exceptions of four departments to the northwest (Morbihan, Manche,   Seine-Maritime and   Hauts-de-Seine) and one department to the far south (Pyrénées Orientales), also absent from Corsica (Association Tela Botanica 2010).

population:
The exact population size is unknown, but the species is considered relatively common throughout its range and populations are believed to be stable.

habitat:
Stony slopes and in deciduous woods and scrub. Cultivated ground as a weed. Adapted to a range of soils, but prefers neutral to high pH with a range of 4.8 to 7.8 (Bennett et al. 2001).

conservationAction:
EURISCO reports 54 germplasm accessions held in European genebanks, 38 of which are reported to be of wild or weedy origin. Of the wild accessions, 25 originate from within Europe (EURISCO Catalogue 2010).

useAndTrade:
Cultivated for fodder and forage; wild populations may harbour important genetic diversity for crop improvement. Also used for erosion control and as an ornamental (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010).


redListCategoryRationale:
Teline nervosa is listed as Critically Endangered due to its restricted and fragmented distribution. It is present in only two locations, with an area of occupancy of 2 km². Regressive trends have been observed for the extent and quality of its habitat and its population size, due to predation of seeds and human impacts.

range:
This species is endemic to the island of Gran Canaria, Canary Islands, Spain (Navarro et al. 2004). It is only present in two locations, in the municipalities of Las Palmas and Teror. Its area of occupancy is 2 km².

population:
Nine individuals have been recorded in the location Altos de Labay-Altos de San Lorenzo and 305 individuals in Riscos de San Jiménez-Montañas de San José de Álamo (Navarro et al. 2004). The two sites are severely fragmented. Negative trends have been reported for its population (Gobierno de Canarias 2004).

habitat:
This rupicolous species grows in degraded and steep sites within thermophile forests, facing north and northwest (Navarro et al. 2004). Frequent accompanying species are Olea europaea ssp. cerasiformis, Hypericum canariensis, Carlina salicifolia, Aeonium undulatum, Sonchus leptocephalus and Crambe pritzelii.

threats:
Main threats are predation of seeds, proximity to urbanised areas, which leads to trampling and anthropization phenomena, collection, infrastructure construction and landslides (Navarro et al. 2004). Competition with exotic species has been also reported as a threat.

conservationAction:
This species is listed under Appendix I of the Convention on the Conservation of European Wildlife and Natural Habitats (Bern Convention). It is included as species "En peligro de extinción" in the Spanish national catalogue of threatened species. It is listed Critically Endangered (CR) B2ab(ii,iii) in the Spanish Red List (Moreno 2008).It occurs within the protected area Paisaje Protegido de Pino Santo (SCI) (Navarro et al. 2004) and is cultivated in the Jardín Botánico Viera y Clavijo, where seeds are stored. #Cultivation and micropropagation should be developed, as well as population monitoring.

redListAssessors:
Navarro Denis, J., Navarro Valdivielso, B. & Naranjo Suárez, J.


taxonomicNotes:
Trifolium hybridum L. belongs to the section Vesicastrum, and is a secondary wild relative of the cultivated crop T. resupinatum L., commonly known as bird-eye clover (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010). It has three varieties native to Europe: Trifolium hybridum L. var.. hybridum, Trifoium hybridum L. var. anatolicum (Boiss.) Boiss. and Trifolium hybridum L. var. elegans (Savi) Boiss.

redListCategoryRationale:
European regional assessment: Least Concern (LC)    EU 27 regional assessment: Least Concern (LC)Trifolium hybridum is a common species with a widespread distribution and with no known threats, therefore it is regionally classified in Europe as Least Concern.

range:
T. hybridum is native to much of central, southern, and eastern Europe, and is also found in parts of north Africa, western Asia and the Caucasus (Zohary and Hellier 1980). It is widely naturalised in temperate regions (USDA, ARS, National  Genetic Resources Program 2010). In France # it is widespread, recorded in the majority of departments with the exceptions of Aude to the south,   Maine-et-Loire in the west and Corsica (Association Tela Botanica 2010).

population:
The exact population size is unknown, but the species is considered common across Europe from Spain to the Caucasus. It is found in a variety of habitats and populations are stable.

habitat:
T. hybridum is found in damp fields, meadows, pastures, roadsides and streams (Zohary and Heller 1984). It is a perennial legume, flowering between May and September. It favours cool, moist climates, and heavy silt, clay, and loamy soils. It can tolerate an average annual precipitation of 820 mm, temperatures between 4.9ºC and 19.7ºC, and soil pH between 4.8 and 7.5 (Duke 1981).

threats:
There appears to be no major threats and this species is found in several habitats which are not threatened within its range.

conservationAction:
Trifolium hybridum is     specifically   listed in    Annex I of the International Treaty on   Plant   Genetic   Resources for    Food and Agriculture as part of the   forage   legume gene pool so warrants specific conservation   attention.Ex situ         seed samples are   available in numerous gene banks with the largest   collections being held by the N.I. Vavilov  All-Russian Scientific   Research Institute of     Plant  Industry Russian  Federation, Aegean      Agricultural Research Institiute  (Menemen, Turkey),    ICARDA   (Aleppo,    Syria) and University of Aberystwyth (Aberystwyth , UK) gene       banks. 229 accessions are being held currently at the Regional Plant Introduction Station    in    Washington, USA (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program    2010).    EURISCO reports 613 germplasm accessions held in European genebanks, 135 of which are reported to be of wild or weedy origin. Of the wild accessions, 111 originate from within Europe (EURISCO Catalogue 2010).  In situ    the      species  is likely to be  passively conserved in many existing         protected areas in throughout its range but as  its  conservation in         these sites is not actively monitored it may be  subject  to     population     loss over time from factors such as climate  change.

useAndTrade:
T. hybridum is often sown as a crop with red clover (T. pratense) or grasses to help improve yield or hay quality. It is more resistant to certain biotic factors than red clover, such as excessively moist soils, and it also produces a more consistant yield, as it does not blacken when dried (for hay), and it does not produce clover sickness. It would be an ideal candidate for a gene donor for T. pratense (or any commercial Trifolium species), but such a procedure may be complicated as T. hybridum belongs to taxon group four of T. pratense. If possible though, it may be able to increase the winter hardiness of T. pratense, as well as improving its tolerance to acid soils and waterlogging (Duke 1981).It is a potential gene donor to the cultivated crop T. resupinatum L. Natural  wild populations are grazed by wild and domesticated  animal species.


taxonomicNotes:
Trifolium incarnatum L. belongs to the section Trifolium, and is a secondary wild relative of the cultivated crops crimson clover (T. incarnatum L.) and red clover (Trifolium pratense L.) (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010). Two subspecies are native to Europe: Trifolium incarnatum ssp. incarnatum and Trifolium incarnatum ssp. molinerii (Balb. ex Hornem.) Ser. in DC. (Zohary and Heller 1984).

redListCategoryRationale:
European regional assessment: Least Concern (LC) EU 27 regional assessment: Least Concern (LC)Trifolium incarnatum is a common species with a widespread distribution and with no major threats, therefore it is classified as Least Concern.

range:
T. incarnatum is native to much of southern Europe, as well as the UK and Turkey. It is naturalized and widely cultivated in many temperate regions (USDA, ARS, National  Genetic Resources Program 2010). In France it is widespread, occurring in the majority of departments; however, it is not recorded in 12 departments in the northern half of the country or the department of Lot in the south (Association Tela Botanica 2000–2010).In the UK Trifolium incarnatum ssp. molinerii is recorded as native in only three localities on the Lizard peninsula in west Cornwall and Jersey (Preston et al. 2002). It is also present in six more localities along the south coast of England and one locality in East Anglia but these are all recorded as alien (Preston et al. 2002). In Spain, most of the locations are naturalized; the populations in Huesca are the only ones that are native (Muñoz Rodríguez et al. 2000).

population:
The exact population size is unknown, but the species is common across Europe from Britain to Turkey. It is found in a variety of habitats and populations are stable.

habitat:
T. incarnatum grows in fields, meadows, pastures and roadsides (Zohary and Heller 1984). It is an annual species, flowering between May and August. It favours sandy and clay soils, and is tolerant of an average annual precipitation of 920 mm, temperatures between 5.9ºC and 21.3ºC, and soil pH ranging from 4.8 to 8.2 (Duke 1981).  In the UK Trifolium incarnatum ssp. molinerii is a lowland species which is strictly maritime as it only grows within 200 m of the sea (Preston et al. 2002). It prefers open habitats such as cliff-slopes that are severely droughted in the summer (Preston et al. 2002).

conservationAction:
T. incarnatum # is      specifically   listed in    Annex I of the International Treaty on    Plant   Genetic   Resources for    Food and Agriculture as part of the    forage   legume gene pool so warrants specific conservation    attention.Ex situ          seed samples are   available in numerous gene banks with the largest    collections being held by the Trifolium Genetic Resource  Centre in Perth, Australia (81 accessions), and the National Plant  Germplasm System in Washington, USA (34 accessions) N.I. Vavilov  All-Russian Scientific    Research Institute of     Plant  Industry Russian  Federation, Aegean       Agricultural Research Institiute  (Menemen, Turkey),    ICARDA    (Aleppo,    Syria) and University of Aberystwyth (Aberystwyth , UK) gene        banks (Lamont et al. 2001).    EURISCO reports 126 germplasm accessions held in European genebanks, 11 of which are reported to be of wild or weedy origin. Of the wild accessions, nine originate from within Europe. These nine wild accessions originate from Bulgaria (one), Italy (two), Macedonia FYR (two), Spain (3) and Ukraine (one) (EURISCO Catalogue 2010).In situ     the      species  is likely to be  passively conserved in many  existing         protected areas in throughout its range but as  its   conservation in         these sites is not actively monitored it may be   subject  to     population     loss over time from factors such as  climate  change.

useAndTrade:
Wild forms of T. incarnatum are potential gene donors for cultivated types, which are currently used as pasture and hay crops, as well as for making green manure and improving soil (Duke 1981). It is also a potential gene donor to the cultivated crops crimson clover (T.  incarnatum L.) and red clover (Trifolium  pratense L.) (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program  2010). Natural  wild populations are grazed by wild and domesticated  animal species.


taxonomicNotes:
Trifolium nigrescens Viv. belongs to the section Trifoliastrum (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010), and is a secondary wild relative of the cultivated crop white clover, T. repens L. (Zohary and Heller 1984, Morris et al. 2009).&# It has three varieties that are native to Europe: T. nigrescens Viv. ssp. nigrescens, T. nigrescens ssp. petrisavii (Clem.) Holmboe, and T. nigrescens ssp. polyanthemum (Ten.) Asch. & Graebn (Euro+Med Plantbase 2010).

redListCategoryRationale:
European regional assessment: Least Concern (LC)    EU 27 regional assessment: Least Concern (LC)Trifolium nigricans is a common species, with a widespread distribution and no major threats, therefore it is regionally classified in Europe as Least Concern.

range:
The distributional range of T. nigrescens covers much of southern Europe, as well as western Asia, the Caucasus, and northern Africa (Zohary and Hellier 1984, USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010). In Spain it is present in Andalucia, Catalunya and the Balearic Islands. In Portugal it is found all over the country and in France it occurs in 13 departments to the south and southeast of the country, Corsica, the southwestern departments of   Hautes-Pyrénées, Landes and Gironde, the central department of   Nièvre and northern department of   Seine-et-Marne (Association Tela Botanica 2000–2010).

population:
The exact population size is unknown, but the species is common across Europe from the Britain to Turkey. It is found in a variety of habitats and populations are stable.

habitat:
T. nigrescens grows on loam or clay soils with fair drainage, preferably with a pH of between 6.5 and 8.5 (Sheaffer and Evers 2007). It is frequently found in semi-natural grasslands that exist after grazing has heavily deteriorated the woodlands or forests (Lamont et al. 2001). It is an annual legume, and flowers between March and October (Zohary and Heller 1984). It can tolerate temperatures between 12.5ºC and 21.3ºC, and annual precipitation between 620 mm and 1,330 mm (Duke 1981).In Portugal and Spain it is found in pastures in flooded depressions, sandy soils, frequently nitrophilous.

threats:
The biggest threat in Europe to T. nigrescens (and all wild species of Trifolium) is overgrazing, generally during the seed production months in the summer (Lamont et al. 2001), but as the species is so widely distributed this is unlikely to threaten the species overall.

conservationAction:
Trifolium nigricans is     not  specifically   listed in    Annex I of the International Treaty  on   Plant   Genetic   Resources for    Food and Agriculture as part of  the  priority forage   legume gene pool.Ex situ          seed samples are relatively rare in gene banks but  collections  are held by the Aegean     Agricultural Research  Institiute  (Menemen,  Turkey),    ICARDA  (Aleppo,    Syria) and  University of Aberystwyth  (Aberystwyth , UK) gene      banks. 34  accessions are being held currently at the Regional Plant Introduction  Station   in     Washington, USA (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources  Program    2010).    EURISCO reports 35 germplasm accessions held in European genebanks, eight of which are reported to be of wild or weedy origin. Of the wild accessions, two originate from within Europe. One of these two wild accessions originates from France and the other from Portugal. These two accessions are stored in Genetic Resources Unit, Institute of Biological, Environmental   Rural Sciences, Aberystwyth University, UK and Estação Nacional Melhoramento Plantas, Portugal respectively (EURISCO Catalogue 2010).  In situ     the      species  is likely to be  passively conserved in many  existing         protected areas in throughout its range but as  its   conservation in         these sites is not actively monitored it may be   subject  to     population     loss over time from factors such as  climate  change.

useAndTrade:
T. nigrescens is a potential gene donor to the cultivated crop white clover, T. repens L. # Natural wild populations are grazed by wild and domesticated animal species.


redListCategoryRationale:
European regional assessment: Data Deficient (DD)EU 27 regional assessment: Not Evaluated (NE)There is no information on the population size or trend and potential threats available for this Turkish endemic. It is therefore classed as Data Deficient. It does not occur within the EU 27.

range:
This plant is endemic to Turkey (Euro+Med Plantbase 2006-2009).

conservationAction:
Trifolium pachycalyx is listed under Appendix I of the Convention on the Conservation of European Wildlife and Natural Habitats (Bern Convention).


taxonomicNotes:
Trifolium pallidum Waldst. & Kit. belongs to the section Trifolium and is a secondary wild relative of the cultivated crop red clover, T. pratense L. and the cultivated crop crimson clover (T. incarnatum L.) (Zohary and Heller 1984, Morris et al. 2009, USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010).

redListCategoryRationale:
European regional assessment: Least Concern (LC)    EU 27 regional assessment: Least Concern (LC)Trifolium pallidum is a common species, with a widespread distribution and with no known threats, therefore it is regionally classified in Europe as Least Concern.

range:
T. pallidum is found across most of southern and central Europe, as well as Turkey and parts of northern Africa (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010). In Spain it is found in southern and northwest region and in France it is confined to the southeastern department of   Bouches-du-Rhône and the two departments of Corsica (Association Tela Botanica 2010).

population:
The exact population size is unknown, but the species is common across southern Europe. It is found in a variety of habitats and populations are stable.In Spain it is not very widespread within the country.

habitat:
T. pallidum is frequently found in semi-natural grasslands that exist after grazing has heavily deteriorated woodlands or forests (Lamont et al. 2001), but generally grows on grasslands, rocks and boulders. It is an annual or biennial legume, and flowers between May and July (Zohary and Heller 1984). In Spain it grwos in loamy or clay substrates with high capacity of water retention.

threats:
The biggest threat in Europe to T. pallidum (and all wild species of Trifolium) is overgrazing, generally during the seed production months in the summer (Lamont et al. 2001),  but as the species is so widely distributed this is unlikely to threaten the species overall.

conservationAction:
Trifolium pallidum is     not   specifically   listed in    Annex I of the International Treaty  on    Plant   Genetic   Resources for    Food and Agriculture as part of  the   priority forage   legume gene pool.Ex situ           seed samples are relatively rare in gene banks but   collections  are held by the Aegean     Agricultural Research   Institiute  (Menemen,  Turkey),    ICARDA  (Aleppo,    Syria) and   University of Aberystwyth  (Aberystwyth , UK) gene      banks. 35   accessions are being held currently at the Regional Plant Introduction   Station   in     Washington, USA (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources   Program    2010).    EURISCO reports 18 germplasm accessions held in European genebanks, two of which are reported to be of wild or weedy origin. Both of these wild accessions originate from within Europe: one from Bulgaria and one from Spain. These two accessions are stored in Institute for Plant Genetic Resources 'K.Malkov', Bulgaria and Junta de Extremadura, Servicio de Investigación y Desarrollo Tecnológico, Finca la Orden, Spain respectively (EURISCO Catalogue 2010).  In situ      the      species  is likely to be  passively conserved in many   existing         protected areas in throughout its range but as  its    conservation in         these sites is not actively monitored it may be    subject  to     population     loss over time from factors such as   climate  change.

useAndTrade:
T. pallidum is a potential gene donor to the cultivated crop red clover, T. pratense L.and crimson clover (T. incarnatum L.) (Zohary and Hellier 1984, Morris et al. 2009, USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010). Natural  wild populations are grazed by wild and domesticated  animal species.


taxonomicNotes:
Trifolium pratense L. belongs to section Trifolium and is a secondary wild relative of the cultivated crop crimson clover (T. incarnatum L.), as well as a primary wild relative of cultivated T. pratense (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010). It has eight subspecies that are native to Europe: T. pratense ssp. baeticum (Boiss.) C. Vicioso, T. pratense ssp. expansum (Waldst. & Kit.) Hausskn., T. pratense ssp. kotulae (Pawl?.) Soják, T. pratense ssp. maritimum (Zabel) Rothm., T. pratense ssp. nivale (W.D.J. Koch) Arcang., T. pratense L. ssp. pratense, T. pratense ssp. sativum (Schreb.) Schübl. & G.Martens, and T. pratense ssp. semipurpureum (Strobl) Pignatti. There are a further four varieties of T. pratense that are native to Europe: T. pratense var. americanum Harz, T. pratense var. frigidum Gaudin,  var. T. pratense maritimum Zabel, and T. pratense var. pratense.

redListCategoryRationale:
European regional assessment: Least Concern (LC)    EU 27 regional assessment: Least Concern (LC)Trifolium pratense is a very common species, with a widespread distribution and with no known threats, therefore it is regionally classified in Europe as Least Concern.

range:
The range of T. pratense includes northern Africa, much of Asia and all of Europe (except for the extreme north and parts of the extreme south) (Lamont et al. 2001). In France, it is widespread, occurs in all departments throughout the country including Corsica (Association Tela Botanica 2010). In the UK it is widespread throughout the whole of England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland (Preston et al. 2002)  and in Ireland it is widespread across the whole of the country (Preston et al. 2002).

population:
The exact population size is unknown, but the species is very common throughout southern   Europe. It is found in a    variety of   habitats and  populations are  stable.In the UK, according to Preston et al. (2002), this species has shown no change in its distribution since the earlier Atlas (Perring and Walters 1962).

habitat:
T. pratense is widely cultivated in Europe and around the world. In the wild it grows in a variety of habitats, including glades, grassy plots, meadows, roadsides, and areas near water (Zohary and Heller 1984), but is restricted to humid areas at high altitudes when it is found in warm, dry regions (Lamont et al. 2001). It grows best on well drained loam soils, although it will grow on wetter soils. It will tolerate annual precipitation of between 310 mm and 1,910 mm, annual mean temperatures between 4.9ºC and 20.3ºC, and soil pH from 4.5 to 8.2     (Duke 1981). It is a perennial legume, and its flowering time is between May and September (Zohary and Heller 1984).  In the UK this species is known to occur from sea level up to 850 m in the Scottish Highlands (Preston et al. 2002). It is found in a wide range of grassland habitats and waste areas although absent from the most acidic soils (Preston et al. 2002).

conservationAction:
T. pratense # is       specifically   listed in    Annex I of the International Treaty on     Plant   Genetic   Resources for    Food and Agriculture as part of  the    forage   legume gene pool so warrants specific conservation     attention.Ex situ          seed samples are   available in numerous gene banks with the largest    collections being held by the Vavilov Research Institute of Plant Industry, Russia (2,913 accessions),  the European Central Crop Database (2,140 accessions), the National  Plant Germplasm System in Washington, USA (1,106 accessions), ICARDA    (Aleppo,    Syria) and University of  Aberystwyth (Aberystwyth, UK) gene        banks (Lamont et al. 2001).&#     EURISCO reports 4,413 germplasm accessions held in European genebanks, 1,232 of which are reported to be of wild or weedy origin. Of the wild accessions, 1,067 originate from within Europe (EURISCO Catalogue 2010).  In situ      the      species  is likely to be  passively conserved in many   existing         protected areas in throughout its range but as  its    conservation in         these sites is not actively monitored it may be    subject  to     population     loss over time from factors such as   climate  change.Classified as Least Concern (LC) in Denmark (P. Wind pers. comm. 2010).

useAndTrade:
A study by Nestel et al. (1999) found that isoflavones which are produced in the leaves of T. pratense can reduce cardiovascular risks associated with the menopause. Wild types of T. pratense are also potential gene donors to cultivated forms. This is a large plant and so natural  wild populations are grazed by wild and domesticated  animal species.


taxonomicNotes:
Trifolium repens L. belongs to the section Trifoliastrum, and is a secondary wild relative of the cultivated crop T. nigrescens Viv. which is commonly known as ball clover, as well as a primary relative of cultivated white clover T. repens (Zohary and Heller 1984). It has eight subspecies that are native to Europe: T. repens ssp. alpinum (Schur) Rothm., T. repens ssp. nevadense (Boiss.) Coombe, T. repens ssp. occidentale (Coombe) M. Laínz, T. repens ssp. ochranthum Nyár., T. repens ssp. orbelicum (Velen.) Pawl., T. repens subsp. orphanideum (Boiss.) Coombe, T. repens ssp. prostratum Nyman, and T. repens L. ssp. repens (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010).

redListCategoryRationale:
European regional assessment: Least Concern (LC) EU 27 regional assessment: Least Concern (LC)Trifolium repens due to its extremely widespread habitat and geographic distribution, and no known threats, it is classified as Least Concern.

range:
T. repens is possible the most common legume species found throughout Europe (and the temperate regions of the world) to approximately 71°N, as well as in northwest Asia and north Africa (Lamont et al. 2001). In France it is widespread, occurs in all departments throughout the country including Corsica (Association Tela Botanica 2010). In the UK it is widespread throughout the whole of England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland (Preston et al. 2002) and in Ireland it is widespread across the whole of the country (Preston et al. 2002).

population:
The exact population size is unknown, but the species is very common  throughout   Europe. It is found in a    variety of   habitats  and  populations are  stable.In the UK, Preston et al. (2002) note the species is widespread throughout the whole of England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland and that there has been no change in this species’ range in recorded floristic history.

habitat:
T. repens, as well as other perennial Trifolium species, generally occur in mountain meadows and areas with high rainfall. It is widely sown and naturalised in temperate regions across the world, but outside of its natural range it can be found in grasslands (Lamont et al. 2001). It grows primarily on damp and swampy soils, and flowers between March and September (Zohary and Heller 1984).T. repens is a perennial legume, flowering between spring and autumn in northern areas, and often all year round in other regions. It grows in dry meadows and mud flats, and less commonly in saline meadows, wood margins, open woods, river banks, plains, semi-desert regions, roadsides, subalpine meadows and lower mountain areas. It favours moist clay and loam soils, and is tolerant to temperatures between 4.3ºC and 21.8ºC, annual precipitation between 310 mm and 1,910 mm, and soil pH from 4.5 to 8.2 (Duke 1981).  In the UK this species is usually found below 400 m but has been recorded up to 880 m (Preston et al. 2002). It avoids particularly wet and acidic soils and grows in grasslands, waste ground and in other ruderal habitats but it is less common in taller grassland (Preston et al. 2002).

threats:
The biggest threat in Europe to T. repens (and all wild species of Trifolium) is overgrazing, generally during the seed production months in the summer (Lamont et al. 2001). An assessment by Moser et al. (2002) found the species to be Vulnerable (BGCI 2009). However, the fact that the species is extremely common and found in many different habitats throughout Europe means it is not currently threatened at the species level. However, recent studies have shown wild forms of the species is prone to introgression and genetic pollution from cultivated forms (Hargreaves et al. 2010).

conservationAction:
T. repens is        specifically   listed in    Annex I of the International Treaty  on     Plant   Genetic   Resources for    Food and Agriculture as part  of  the    forage   legume gene pool so warrants specific  conservation     attention.Ex situ          seed samples are   available in numerous gene banks with the largest    collections being held by the Margot Forde Forage Germplasm Centre in New Zealand (13,000 accessions), Vavilov  Research Institute of Plant Industry, Russia, the National  Plant  Germplasm System in Washington, USA, ICARDA    (Aleppo,    Syria) and University of  Aberystwyth (Aberystwyth , UK) (553 accessions) gene        banks (Lamont et al. 2001).    EURISCO reports 3,544 germplasm accessions held in European genebanks, 1,267 of which are reported to be of wild or weedy origin. Of the wild accessions, 1,125 originate from within Europe (EURISCO Catalogue 2010).In situ       the      species  is likely to be  passively conserved in many    existing         protected areas in throughout its range but as  its     conservation in         these sites is not actively monitored it may be     subject  to     population     loss over time from factors such as    climate  change.Classified as Least Concern (LC) in Denmark (P. Wind pers. comm. 2010).

useAndTrade:
Wild types of T. repens are potential gene donors for the improvement of cultivated varieties. The truly wildforms of the species are relatively small plants but these natural wild populations are grazed by wild and domesticated animal species.


taxonomicNotes:
Trifolium resupinatum L. belongs to section Vesicastrum, and is a secondary wild relative of the cultivated crop alsike clover (T. hybridum L.) (USDA, ARS, National genetic Resources Program 2010). The species contains two varieties native to Europe, Trifolium resupinatum L. var. resupinatum, T. resupinatum L. var. microcephalum Zoh. in Zoh & Heller and T. resupinatum L. var. majus Boiss. (Zohary and Heller 1984).

redListCategoryRationale:
European regional assessment: Least Concern (LC) EU 27 regional assessment: Least Concern (LC)Trifolium resupinatum due to its widespread habitat and geographic distribution, and no known threats, it is classified as Least Concern.

range:
T. resupinatum is native to much of southern Europe and parts of central and eastern Europe, as well as north Africa, western Asia, the Caucasus, Pakistan, the Madeira Islands and the Canary Islands (Zohary and Heller 1984). It is also widely naturalised (USDA, ARS, National  Genetic Resources Program 2010).In France it occurs in the  southeast, south, west and far north. Largely absent from central and northeastern departments. It is also present in Corsica (Association Tela Botanica 2010). It is also present in Moldova (AgroAtlas 2010).It is also native in mainland Portugal and Spain according to Muñoz Rodríguez et al. (2000). It is also native in Madeira according to Borges et al. (2008).

population:
The exact population size is unknown, but the species is common throughout southern Europe. It is found in a variety of habitats and populations are stable.

habitat:
T. resupinatum is an annual legume, flowering between March and May, and grows in fields, riverbanks, roadsides and wastelands, generally on heavy soils (Zohary and Heller 1984). It is most successful on medium to slightly acid soils, but can withstand pH between 4.8 and 8.2, as well as annual rainfall between 280 mm and 1,360 mm, and temperatures ranging from 6.3ºC to 20.3ºC (Duke 1981).

threats:
This species is very common and found in many different habitats so it is not currently threatened.

conservationAction:
T. resupinatum is         specifically   listed in    Annex I of the International Treaty   on     Plant   Genetic   Resources for    Food and Agriculture as part   of  the    forage   legume gene pool so warrants specific   conservation     attention.Ex situ          seed samples are   available in numerous gene banks with the largest    collections being held by the Trifolium Genetic Resource Centre in Perth, Australia (695 accessions), the Australia Medicago Genetic Resource Centre in Adelaide, Australia (246 accessions), Margot  Forde Forage Germplasm Centre in New Zealand,  Vavilov  Research Institute of Plant Industry, Russia, the National   Plant  Germplasm System in Washington, USA, ICARDA    (Aleppo,    Syria) and University of  Aberystwyth (Aberystwyth , UK) gene        banks (Lamont et al. 2001). #     EURISCO reports 162 germplasm accessions held in European genebanks, 22 of which are reported to be of wild or weedy origin. Of the wild accessions, 16 originate from within Europe. These 16 wild accessions originate from France (one), Greece (two), Portugal (10) and Spain (three) (EURISCO Catalogue 2010).  In situ        the      species  is likely to be  passively conserved in many     existing         protected areas in throughout its range but as  its      conservation in         these sites is not actively monitored it may  be     subject  to     population     loss over time from factors such  as    climate  change.An assessment of T. resupinatum by Nikolic and Topic (2005) found it to be Vulnerable (BGCI 2009).

useAndTrade:
Wild types of T. resupinatum are potential gene donors to cultivated forms, which are used as a forage crop, and well as for hay, silage and green manure, and occasionally as ornamentals (Duke 1981). It is also a potential gene donor to the cultivated crop alsike clover (T.  hybridum L.) (USDA, ARS, National genetic Resources Program  2010). Natural  wild populations are grazed by wild and domesticated  animal species.


taxonomicNotes:
Synonym of Trifolium thymiflorum in France.

redListCategoryRationale:
European regional assessment: Near Threatened (NT)EU 27 regional assessment: Near Threatened (NT)This species is fragmented and is experiencing a decline in the quality and extent of its habitat due to recreational activities, grazing, change of hydrological management to river habitats and quarrying. The population size is also slightly decreasing. There is no information on the area of occupancy but it is probably around 2,000 km² or less. It is therefore listed as Near Threatened for the moment.

range:
This species is native to the alpine regions within Austria, France, Italy and Switzerland (Commission of the European Communities 2009, Euro+Med Plantbase 2006-2010). In France, it is found in Haute-Savoie, Savoie, Isère amd Hautes-Alpes.

population:
In Austria, recorded population is between 1,000 and 3,000 individuals and it is known from three localities (Fischer et al. 2008). In Italy, the species has been recorded in six localities (and two need to be confirmed). In France, it has been reported from 12 localities with more than 40,000 individuals in 2003 and the trend seems  stable (N. Juillet pers.  comm. 2010). The populations in Italy are decreasing. In Switzerland, the area of occupancy is 36 km² and stable in some parts while decreasing along the edge of its range. Overall, there is a small decline of the populations.

habitat:
Trifolium saxatile is found in sub-alpine and alpine moraines and glacial sediments from 400-3,000 m altitude. It grows on rocky and siliceous substrate.It can be found in the following Habitats Directive listed habitats (Commission of the European Communities 2009):3220 Alpine rivers and the herbaceous vegetation along their banks8110 Siliceous scree of the montane to snow levels (Androsacetalia alpinae and Galeopsietalia ladani)8340 Permanent glaciers

threats:
Recreational activities such as skiing and construction work to stabilise the slopes are a threat to the species. Grazing might be a threat in certain areas. Changes to river banks, such as to stabilisation measures or changes in hydrological regimes, the construction of dams etc. that lead to changes in river flow are a threat to the habitat. Quarrying and the removal of rocks is a threat in some areas.

conservationAction:
Trifolium saxatile is listed on Annex II of the Habitats Directive and under Appendix I of the Convention on the Conservation of European Wildlife and Natural Habitats (Bern Convention).In France, it is under regional protection in Provence-Alpes-Côte-d'Azur and Rhône-Alpes. Eleven localities are included in the in national parks of Ecrins or Vanoise and there are several localities that are well surveyed. Seeds from four localities have been collected for ex situ conservation. In Italy, it is classed as Lower Risk on the Red List and some populations are protected in a national park. In Switzerland and Austria, it is classed as Vulnerable on the national Red Lists.

redListAssessors:
Gygax, A., Montagnani, C., Gargano, D., Bernhardt, K.G. & Gigot, G.


taxonomicNotes:
Trifolium subterraneum L. belongs to section Trichocephalum, and is a tertiary wild relative of the cultivated species T. repens L. (white clover) and T. pratense L. (red clover) (Zohary and Heller 1984, USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010). It has three subspecies native to Europe: Trifolium subterraneum L. ssp. subterraneum, Trifolium subterraneum L. ssp. oxaloides Nyman and Trifolium subterraneum L. ssp. yanninicum Kayzn. & F. H. Morley (Euro+Med PlantBase 2010).

redListCategoryRationale:
European regional assessment: Least Concern (LC) EU 27 regional assessment: Least Concern (LC)Trifolium subterraneum due to its widespread habitat and geographic distribution, and no known threats, it is classified as Least Concern.

range:
T. subterraneum is distributed throughout much of southern Europe, as well as Great Britain, Ukraine, western Asia, the Caucasus, northern Africa, the Madeira Islands and the Canary Islands (Zohary and Heller 1984). It is naturalised in the Azores, Australia, New Zealand and the USA (USDA, ARS, National  Genetic Resources Program 2010).In France it is widespread in all areas of the country with the exception of 17 departments to the east and northeast (Association Tela Botanica 2010). In the UK it occurs mainly in the south of England, particularly along the coast, as well as along the Welsh coastline. There are a small number of occurrences in the north of England and along the England-Scotland border but these are recorded as alien (Preston et al. 2002) and in Ireland it occurs in only two localities on the eastern coast, one of which is recorded as alien (Preston et al. 2002).

population:
The exact population size is unknown, but the species is common    throughout   southern Europe. It is found in a    variety of   habitats   and   populations are  stable.In the UK according to Preston et al. (2002), this species was lost from a number of inland localities in the 19th and early 20th centuries, however, it has remained stable since 1930.

habitat:
T. subterraneum is a winter annual, flowering between April and May. It grows in low grass meadows and scrubland on well drained, light soils. It succeeds on acid soils, and can tolerate pH between 4.5 and 8.2, as well as annual rainfall between 380 mm and 1,630 mm, and temperatures from 5.9ºC to 21.3ºC (Duke 1981).  In the UK this lowland species prefers thin, free-draining sands, gravels and shingles which are neutral to acidic (Preston et al. 2002). It grows in coastal areas in open grassland or heathland (Preston et al. 2002). According to Preston et al. (2002), it grows on summer-parched grasslands on chalk and limestone when found inland.

threats:
This species is relatively common and found in many different habitats so it is not currently threatened. If anything this species often passes unrecognised because of the geocarpic flowers and pods.

conservationAction:
T. subterraneum is          specifically   listed in    Annex I of the International Treaty    on     Plant   Genetic   Resources for    Food and Agriculture as  part   of  the    forage   legume gene pool so warrants specific    conservation     attention.Ex situ          seed samples are   available in numerous gene banks with the largest    collections being held by the Trifolium Genetic Resource  Centre in Perth, Australia (7,900 accessions), the European Central Crop  Database (3,077 accessions) and Aegean Agricultural Reseacrh Institute in  Izmir, Turkey (823 accessions), the Australia Medicago  Genetic Resource Centre in Adelaide, Australia, Margot   Forde Forage Germplasm Centre in New Zealand,  Vavilov  Research  Institute of Plant Industry, Russia, the National   Plant  Germplasm  System in Washington, USA, ICARDA    (Aleppo,    Syria) and University of  Aberystwyth (Aberystwyth, UK) gene        banks (Lamont et al. 2001). #     EURISCO reports 5,387 germplasm accessions held in European genebanks, 2,813 of which are reported to be of wild or weedy origin. Of the wild accessions, 2,306 originate from within Europe. The majority of these accessions were collected from Spain (1,826) (EURISCO Catalogue 2010).  In situ         the      species  is likely to be  passively conserved in many      existing         protected areas in throughout its range but as  its       conservation in         these sites is not actively monitored it  may  be     subject  to     population     loss over time from factors  such  as    climate  change. In France this species is protected in the central/eastern region of Bourgogne (Association Tela Botanica 2010).

useAndTrade:
Wild types of T. subterraneum are potential gene donors for cultivated forms, which are used for pasture as well as erosion control (Duke 1981), particularly in the drier areas of Australia. Natural  wild populations are grazed by wild and domesticated  animal species.


taxonomicNotes:
Medicago secundiflora Durieu belongs to section Lupularia. It is a secondary wild relative of the cultivated crop black medic (M. lupulina L.), and a tertiary wild relative of cultivated alfalfa, M. sativa L. ssp. sativa (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010).

redListCategoryRationale:
European regional assessment: Data Deficient (DD) EU 27 regional assessment: Data Deficient (DD)    Medicago secundiflora is assessed as Data Deficient as not much information about its population size and status is available. It seems to be rare in most of its range without information on a population trend or the affects of potential threats.

range:
In Europe, M. secundiflora is only native to France, Italy and Spain (including the Balearic Islands), but it is also found in parts of northern Africa (Al-Atawneh et al. 2009, USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010). The presence in Sicily is not confirmed. In France it occurs in the south, including the islands of Leucate, de Fitou et de lÓrteil and the southern departments of Aude and   Hérault (Association Tela Botanica 2010).

population:
The exact population size is unknown overall, but the species has a fragmented population structure and the species is considered scarce but is known to be stable in east and central Spain.

habitat:
M. secundiflora grows on calcareous slopes (Al-Atawneh et al. 2009). Also in sand and rocky shores in the Mediterranean.

threats:
It is possibly threatened due to habitat erosion, and grows in regions threatened by climate change (Prosperi et al. 2001).

conservationAction:
M. secundiflora   has few accessions available in gene banks. It is recommended to ensure representation of this species from all the countries. The species occurs in protected areas.No germplasm accessions are reported by EURISCO to be held in European genebanks (EURISCO Catalogue 2010).In France this species is protected in the southern region of Languedoc-Roussillon (Association Tela Botanica 2010).

useAndTrade:
Medicago secundiflora is a potential gene donor for the cultivated crops black medic (M. lupulina), and alfalfa (M. sativa ssp. sativa).


taxonomicNotes:
Medicago soleirolii Duby belongs to the section Spirocarpos, subsection Pachyspireae. It is a secondary wild relative of the cultivated crop M. truncatula Gaertn., commonly known as barrel clover, and is a tertiary wild relative of cultivated alfalfa, M. sativa L. ssp. sativa (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010).

redListCategoryRationale:
European regional assessment: Data Deficient (DD) EU 27 regional assessment: Data Deficient (DD)  Medicago soleirolii # is assessed as Data Deficient on European level due to taxonomic issues and lack of information regarding native populations of distribution range, population size and habitat type.

range:
M. soleirolii is native to Algeria and Tunisia, but is naturalised in France and Italy. However in the Ukraine M. soleirolii grows adventively (introduced) (Al-Atawneh et al. 2009, USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010).In France it is confined to the departments of   Bouches-du-Rhône, Var and Alpes-Maritimes and the two departments of Corsica (Association Tela Botanica 2010).

population:
The exact population size in Europe is unknown.

habitat:
M. soleirolii grows on calcareous soils and sandy soils on grassy slopes, fields and scrubland (Al-Atawneh et al. 2009).

conservationAction:
M. soleirolii   has few accessions available in gene banks, and is rare in the wild (Prosperi et al. 2001).In France this species is protected in the region of Corse (Corsica) (Association Tela Botanica 2010).    EURISCO reports only one germplasm accession held in European genebanks, none of which are reported to be of wild or weedy origin (EURISCO Catalogue 2010).

useAndTrade:
M. soleirolii is a potential gene donor for the cultivated crops M. truncatula, commonly known as barrel clover, and cultivated alfalfa, M. sativa ssp. sativa.


taxonomicNotes:
Medicago strasseri Greuter et al. belongs to section Dendrotelis, and is a tertiary wild relative of cultivated alfalfa, M. sativa L. ssp. sativa (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010).

redListCategoryRationale:
Medicago strasseri is endemic to Crete, it is found in very specific habitats and has a very restricted range, even though it is probably occurring in more than 10 locations. There are no ex situ collections and it is unknown if it present in a protected area. It is considered to be rare and is impacted by overgrazing. It is therefore considered as Near Threatened.

range:
M. strasseri in endemic to Crete, Greece (Al-Atawneh et al. 2009, USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010).

population:
This is a rare species. Its population trend is unknown.

habitat:
M. strasseri has only been found growing on vertical limestone cliff faces in Crete (Al-Atawneh et al. 2009).

threats:
Overgrazing might be a threat to this species.

conservationAction:
M. strasseri   has few accessions available in gene banks. More research is needed on the distribution and population trends of this rare endemic. A monitoring programme should be set up.    EURISCO reports three germplasm accessions held in European genebanks, two of which are reported to be of wild or weedy origin. Of these wild accessions, only one originates from within Europe. This accession originates from Spain and is also stored in Spain (Comunidad de Madrid, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, Escuela Técnica Superior de Ingenieros Agrónomos, Banco de Germoplasma) (EURISCO Catalogue 2010).

useAndTrade:
M. strasseri is a potential gene donor for cultivated alfalfa, M. sativa ssp. sativa.


taxonomicNotes:
Medicago suffruticosa Ramond ex DC. belongs to the section Medicago, and is a secondary wild relative of cultivated alfalfa, M. sativa L. ssp. sativa (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010). The species contains two subspecies native to Europe: Medicago suffruticosa Ramond ex DC. ssp. suffruticosa and Medicago suffruticosa Ramond ex DC. ssp. leiocarpa (Benth.) P. Fourn.

redListCategoryRationale:
European regional assessment: Least Concern (LC) EU 27 regional assessment: Least Concern (LC)    Medicago suffruticosa is a common species and there appears to be no major threats. It is found in several habitats which are not specifically threatened within Europe, populations appears to be stable; therefore, it is regionally assessed in Europe as Least Concern.

range:
M. suffruticosa is native only to France and Spain in Europe, but is also found in the Atlas Mountains in Morocco (Al-Atawneh et al. 2009, USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010). It also occurs in Andorra. In France it is confined to seven departments in the south of the country:   Pyrénées-Atlantiques,   Hautes-Pyrénées, Haute-Garonne,   Ariège, Aude,   Pyrénées Orientales and   Hérault (Association Tela Botanica 2010).

population:
It is a common and widespread species in Spain and the population levels appear stable.

habitat:
M. suffruticosa grows in mid-mountain zones on calcareous rocks (Al-Atawneh et al. 2009). It is also found in meadows, wetlands and eroded areas.

threats:
It is possibly threatened due to habitat erosion, and grows in regions threatened by climate change (Prosperi et al. 2001), however it is found in several habitats.

conservationAction:
M. suffruticosa   has few accessions available in gene banks. EURISCO reports six germplasm accessions held in European genebanks, five of which are reported to be of wild or weedy origin. Of the wild accessions, three originate from within Europe. The three wild accessions originate from Spain and are also stored in Spain (Comunidad de Madrid, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, Escuela Técnica Superior de Ingenieros Agrónomos, Banco de Germoplasma) (EURISCO Catalogue 2010).

useAndTrade:
M. suffruticosa is a potential gene donor for cultivated alfalfa, M. sativa ssp. sativa.


taxonomicNotes:
Medicago tenderiensis Opperman ex Klokov is a primary wild relative of the widely cultivated M. sativa L. ssp. sativa, commonly known as alfalfa (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010). Atawneh et al. (2009) consider Medicago tenderiensis is a synonym of Medicago sativa ssp. falcata (L.) Arcang.

redListCategoryRationale:
European regional assessment: Data Deficient (DD)EU 27 regional assessment: Not Evaluated (NE)Although this species is reported to be very restricted the lack of population assessment and taxonomic uncertainty mean it is classified as Data Deficient.

range:
M. tenderiensis is restricted to the Ukraine. Although as M. sativa subsp. falcata it is much more widespread and is also widely naturalised (Al-Atawneh et al. 2009, USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010). #

population:
The exact population size and trend is unknown, but the species is considered rare within its range.

habitat:
M. tenderiensis is found on calcareous rocks, and is adapted to dry, boreal and steppe conditions (Al-Atawneh et al. 2009).

threats:
Research by Al-Atawneh et al. (2009) suggests that M. tenderiensis is not subject to any specific threat.

conservationAction:
M. tenderiensis, as well as the majority of Mediterranean species of Medicago, has germplasm stored in numerous genebanks, notably the Australian Medicago Genetic Resources Centre (AMGRC) in Adelaide, Australia, the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Agricultural Research Service (ARS) in the USA, and the International Centre for Agricultural Research in the Dry Areas (ICARDA) in Syria (Prosperi et al. 2001).No germplasm accessions are reported by EURISCO to be held in European genebanks (EURISCO Catalogue 2010).

useAndTrade:
M. tenderiensis is a potential gene donor for the widely cultivated M. sativa L. ssp. sativa, commonly known as alfalfa.


taxonomicNotes:
Medicago tenoreana Ser. belongs to the section Spirocarpos, subsection Leptospireae. It is a secondary wild relative of the cultivated crops M. arabica (L.) Huds. (spotted medic), and M. polymopha L. (bur medic), and a tertiary wild relative of cultivated alfalfa, M. sativa L. ssp. sativa (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010).

redListCategoryRationale:
European regional assessment: Least Concern (LC)EU 27 regional assessment: Least Concern (LC)Due to the widespread nature of this species, and no known threats, it is classified as Least Concern.

range:
M. tenoreana has a fairly narrow distribution, being found only in France, Italy, and the countries of the Former Yugoslavia (Al-Atawneh et al. 2009, USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010). In France it is confined to the department of Var in the southeast (Association Tela Botanica 2010).

population:
It is rare in the wild (Prosperi et al. 2001).

habitat:
M. tenoreana grows on dry, rocky hill slopes and sand dunes (Al-Atawneh et al. 2009).

threats:
The International Legume Database and Information Service (2010) states that M. tenoreana is not threatened.

conservationAction:
M. tenoreana has few accessions available in gene banks.EURISCO reports only one germplasm accession held in European genebanks, this accession is not reported to be of wild or weedy origin (EURISCO Catalogue 2010).

useAndTrade:
M. tenoreana is a potential gene donor for the cultivated crops M. arabica (spotted medic), M. polymopha (bur medic), and M. sativa ssp. sativa (alfalfa).


taxonomicNotes:
Medicago tornata (L.) Mill. belongs to the section Spirocarpos, subsection Pachyspireae. It is a secondary wild relative of the cultivated crop M. truncatula Gaertn., commonly known as barrel clover, and a tertiary wild relative of cultivated alfalfa, M. sativa L. ssp. sativa (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010). Borges et al. (2008) and Al-Atawneh et al. (2009) consider the species a synonym of Medicago italica.

redListCategoryRationale:
European regional assessment: Least Concern (LC)EU 27 regional assessment: Least Concern (LC)Medicago tornata is a relatively common species within its range and there appears to be no major threats. It is found in several habitats which are not threatened within Europe, populations appear to be stable; therefore, it is regionally assessed in Europe as Least Concern.

range:
M. tornata has a fairly narrow native distributional range; it is found in certain regions of southern Europe, western Asia and northern Africa. However, it is widely cultivated worldwide, and is naturalised in Australia (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010). In France this species is found in six departments along the western coast:   Finistère, Morbihan,   Vendée, Vienne,   Charente-Maritime and Landes (Association Tela Botanica 2010).

population:
The exact population size is unknown, but the species is considered relatively stable throughout its range.

habitat:
M. tornata grows on sandy soils, frequently on the seashore (Al-Atawneh et al. 2009).

threats:
This is a relatively common species within its range and there appears to be no major threats. Although found in a limited number of habitats these are not threatened within its region.

conservationAction:
EURISCO reports 30 germplasm accessions held in European genebanks, 10 of which are reported to be of wild or weedy origin. Of the wild accessions, nine originate from within Europe. These nine wild accessions originate from Cyprus (one), Italy (two), Portugal (one) and Spain (five) and are all stored in Junta de Extremadura, Servicio de Investigación y Desarrollo Tecnológico, Finca la Orden, Spain (EURISCO Catalogue 2010).

useAndTrade:
M. tornata is a potential gene donor for the cultivated crops M. truncatula (barrel clover), and M. sativa ssp. sativa (alfalfa).


taxonomicNotes:
Medicago truncatula Gaertn. belongs to the section Spirocarpos, subsection Pachyspireae, and is a tertiary wild relative of cultivated alfalfa, M. sativa L. ssp. sativa (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010).

redListCategoryRationale:
European regional assessment: Least Concern (LC)  EU 27 regional assessment: Least Concern (LC)  Medicago truncatula is a common species and there appears to be no major threats. It is found in several habitats which are not threatened within Europe, populations appear to be stable; therefore, it is regionally assessed in Europe as Least Concern.

range:
M. truncatula is native to much of southern and eastern Europe, as well as northern Africa, western Asia and the Caucasus. It has become naturalised in Australia and parts of South America (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010). In France it occurs in eight departments along the southern coast, the two departments of Corsica and the departments of Morbihan, Gironde and   Pyrénées-Atlantiques on the western coast (Association Tela Botanica 2010).

habitat:
M. truncatula is found in a wide variety of habitats, including the seashore, arid slopes, meadows, garrigue, fields, light scrub, and alluvial plains. It grows on calcareous, alluvial and terra rosa soils (Al-Atawneh et al. 2009).

threats:
This is a common species across Europe and there appears to be no major threats. It is found in a number of habitats that are not threatened.

conservationAction:
M. truncatula   is a widespread species, with a large number of accessions available in gene banks (Prosperi et al. 2001).    EURISCO reports 116 germplasm accessions held in European genebanks, 81 of which are reported to be of wild or weedy origin. Of the wild accessions, 69 originate from within Europe (EURISCO Catalogue 2010).

useAndTrade:
M. truncatula is a potential gene donor for cultivated alfalfa, M. sativa ssp. sativa.


taxonomicNotes:
Medicago turbinata (L.) All. belongs to the section Spirocarpos, subsection Pachyspireae. It is a secondary wild relative of M. truncatula Gaertn., commonly known as barrel clover, and a tertiary wild relative of cultivated alfalfa, M. sativa L. ssp. sativa (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010). The species contains a variety native to Europe, Medicago turbinata (L.) All. var. aculeata Moris.

redListCategoryRationale:
European regional assessment: Least Concern (LC)  EU 27 regional assessment: Least Concern (LC)  Medicago turbinata is  a common species and there appears to be no major threats. It is found  in several habitats which are not threatened within Europe, populations  appear to be stable; therefore, it is regionally assessed in Europe as  Least Concern.

range:
M. turbinata is native to much of southern Europe, as well as parts of western Asia and northern Africa (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010). In Spain it is found in the Balearic Islands and coastal areas and in France it occurs in the northern departments of Eure, Aisne and Marne, the central departments of Vienne and Lot, the southwestern department of   Pyrénées-Atlantiques, the southern department of   Pyrénées Orientales, the southeastern departments of   Bouches-du-Rhône and Var and the two departments of Corsica (Association Tela Botanica 2010).

habitat:
M. turbinata grows on mountains in field margins and rocky areas, on sandy and limestone soils (Al-Atawneh et al. 2009).In Spain it is found in grasslands and cultivated fields.

threats:
There appears to be no major threats. It is found in a number of habitats that are not threatened. It is possibly threatened due to habitat erosion, and grows in regions threatened by climate change (Prosperi et al. 2001).

conservationAction:
M. turbinata  has few accessions available in gene banks. EURISCO reports 37 germplasm accessions held in European genebanks, 11 of which are reported to be of wild or weedy origin. All of these wild accessions originate from within Europe: seven from Cyprus (stored in Junta de Extremadura, Servicio de Investigación y Desarrollo Tecnológico, Finca la Orden, Spain), one from Greece (stored in Greek Genebank, Agricultural Research Center of Macedonia and Thrace, National Agricultural Research Foundation, Greece) and three from Spain (stored in Junta de Extremadura, Servicio de Investigación y Desarrollo Tecnológico, Finca la Orden, Spain) (EURISCO Catalogue 2010).

useAndTrade:
M. turbinata is a potential gene donor for the cultivated crops M. truncatula, barrel clover, and alfalfa, M. sativa ssp. sativa.


taxonomicNotes:
Melilotus is not a large genus, with only 14 species found in Europe (Euro+Med Plantbase 2010). M albus is a common species occationally used as a forage.

redListCategoryRationale:
European regional assessment: Least Concern (LC)  EU 27 regional assessment: Least Concern (LC)  Melilotus albus is   a common species and there appears to be no major threats. It is found   in several habitats which are not threatened within Europe,  populations  appear to be stable; therefore, it is regionally assessed  in Europe as  Least Concern.

range:
Native to middle, east, southeastern and southwestern Europe (Euro+Med Plantbase 2010), temperate Asia (including Cyprus and Turkey), northern Africa, the Indian subcontinent and Myanmar (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010). In Cyprus, Meikle (1977) stated that the species is possibly an introduction or casual. It is recorded only in Troodos area (Botanical devision 2). In Germany it is considered an archeophyt, native, not endangered, not protected; common and widespread, as it is in Hungary   (Soó 1966, Simon 1992), while in France it is recorded in all departments with the exception of Tarn in the south (Association Tela Botanica 2010).

habitat:
Found in natural grassland, ruderal grassland, eutrophic, dry sites in Germany and in Hungary it appears to be indifferent to reaction of soils, preferably calcareous nitrogen-enriched clay, loam, loess, sandy soils. Grows in embankments (Meliloto-Echietum) dry roadside vegetations (Hordeetum murini, Schlerochloo-Polygonetum avicularis), arable lands, Chenopodietes species   (Soó 1966, Simon 1992).

conservationAction:
In Hungary M. albus is not protected although sometimes it is used as a green manure   (Király 2007). EURISCO reports 101 germplasm accessions held in European genebanks, 50 of which are reported to be of wild or weedy origin. Of the wild accessions, 39 originate from within Europe (EURISCO Catalogue 2010).

useAndTrade:
Cultivated for forage; wild populations may harbour important genetic diversity for crop improvement. Also used as a soil improver and is an important bee plant (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010).


redListCategoryRationale:
Teline rosmarinifolia is classed Endangered for its area of occupancy is 21.25 km2, it is distributed throughout a low number of locations and several factors appear as threats to its conservation. A fire some years ago exerted a high negative impact on the taxon and no recovery has been observed. It is affected by predation and tends to appear sheltered in areas out of reach of herbivorous species, restricted within its potential distribution range. Negative population trends have been observed for the majority of its population.

range:
This taxon is endemic to the island of Gran Canaria, Canary Islands, Spain (Dirección General de Medio Natural y Política Forestal del MARM 2007). Two subspecies have been described: Teline rosmarinifolia ssp. eurifolia and Teline rosmarinifolia ssp. rosmarinifolia.Teline rosmarinifolia ssp. eurifolia appears restricted to the massif of Tamadaba, in the northwestern part of the island, where five subpopulations have been found. Its area of occupancy has been estimated in between 4 and 5.5 km2 (4 grid cells of 1x1 km or 22 grid cells of 500x500 m) (Gobierno de Canarias 2004), stable since the discovery of the species.Teline rosmarinifolia ssp. rosmarinifolia has been reported to present 21 subpopopulations (Beltrán Tejera et al. 1999, Gobierno de Canarias 2009). Its area of occupancy has been estimated in between 13.50 and 15.75 km2 (54 and 63 grid cells of 500x500 m). Its distribution was reduced by a fire in 2007.

population:
A total population size between 32,012 individuals   (Commission of the European Communities 2009) and 42,990 individuals (Gobierno de Canarias 2004, 2009) has been reported. The subspecies eurifolia has less than 700 individuals. The presence of reproductive individuals has been reported to be low for Teline rosmarinifolia ssp. eurifolia (Dirección General de Medio Natural y Política Forestal del MARM 2007).Six subpopulations of Teline rosmarinifolia ssp. rosmarinifolia were affected by a fire in 2007. This led to a decrease of the population size and distribution area of this taxon. No recovering has been detected and the current population trend is thought to be regressive.

habitat:
Teline rosmarinifolia ssp. eurifolia grows in sub-humid rupicolous communities on crags, within the potential distribution range of mixed pine forests Pinetum canariensis subas. ericetosum arboreae and occasionally Telino canariensis-Adenocarpion foliolosi.Teline rosmarinifolia ssp. rosmarinifolia grows towards the leeward, in xerophytic scrublands, within the distribution range of thermophile communities and transition communities towards pine forest, such as Mayteno-Juniperion canariensis, Cisto-Pinion canariensis and Soncho-Aonion. Under pressure it appears sheltered in rupicolous communities.

threats:
The main threat affecting Teline rosmarinifolia is predation by goats and rabbits, which limits the presence of reproductive individuals and affects the quality of the habitat of this taxon, forcing it to shelter in inaccessible areas (Gobierno de Canarias 2004, 2009). Competition with the exotic invasive Pennisetum setaceum has been reported as a threat to Teline rosmarinifolia ssp. eurifolia.

conservationAction:
This species is listed as priority species on Annex II of the Habitat Directive and under Appendix I of the Convention on the Conservation of European Wildlife and Natural Habitats (Bern Convention).Teline rosmarinifolia ssp. eurifolia is classed CR B1ab(iii)+2ab(iii) in the Spanish Red List (Moreno 2008). It is included as species "En peligro de extinción" in the national catalogue of threatened species of Spain, and as species "de interés para los ecosistemas canarios" in the regional catalogue. It occurs in the protected area Parque Natural de Tamadaba. Seeds are stored in the germplasm bank Jardín Botánico Viera y Clavijo.Teline rosmarinifolia ssp. rosmarinifolia is classed EN B2ab(iii,v) in the Spanish Red List 2008. It is included as species "de interés para los ecosistemas canarios" in the catalogue of protected species for the Canary Islands.Proposed actions in order to ensure the conservation of this taxon include seeds collection and storage, ex situ cultivation, herbivorous species control or eradication, and the implementation of population reinforcement measures.

useAndTrade:
No traditional use or trade is known for this species.


redListCategoryRationale:
Teline salsoloides is classed as Critically Endangered due to its highly restricted distribution, with an area of occupancy of 2 km² and presence confirmed in just one single location. The species appears sheltered in sites out of reach of predators, occuring in marginal areas of its potential habitat. Negative trends have been observed for its population size, of around 160 individuals. Geological instability of the area, hybridisation phenomena and continuing grazing lead this species to a critical situation.

range:
This plant is endemic to the island of Tenerife, Canary Islands, Spain, where it can be found between 200 and 435 m asl. It is restricted to one single location on a coastal cliff in the Teno massif (Acevedo Rodríguez et al. 2004). Its area of occupancy is 2 km².

population:
Its total population has been reported to be 156 individuals (Acevedo Rodríguez et al. 2004, Commission of the European Communities 2009). It presents high reproductive incompatibility and flowering is very irregular, which affects viable seed production. Increasing trends have been observed for the number of individuals recorded due to the improvement of the monitoring methods and not as a result of the expansion of the species (Gobierno de Canarias 2004).

habitat:
This species grows in steep coastal areas on scarce, geologically unstable soils, on sites affected by strong winds blowing from the sea. Its main habitat are xerophytic communities Ceropegio dichotomae-Euphorbietum aphyllae   (Acevedo Rodríguez et al. 2004, Commission of the European Communities 2009). Frequent accompanying species are Tolpis crassiuscula, Hypochoeris oligocephala, Reichardia crystallina and Vieraea laevigata.

threats:
Its main threats are predation and landslides. Livestock trampling increases the instability of a substrate already affected by wind erosion. Hybridisation phenomena with Teline canariensis and Teline osyrioides ssp. osyrioides have been frequently observed     (Acevedo Rodríguez et al. 2004).

conservationAction:
This species is listed as priority species on Annex II of the Habitats Directive and under Appendix I of the Convention on the Conservation of European Wildlife and Natural Habitats (Bern Convention). It is included as species "En peligro de extinción" in the national and regional catalogues of threatened species. It is listed as CR B2ab(iii,v); C2a(ii) in the Spanish Red List (Moreno 2008). It occurs within the protected area Parque Rural de Teno (SCI) (Acevedo Rodríguez et al. 2004). Seeds are stored in the Jardín Botánico Viera y Clavijo. The species is under monitoring and three reintroduction plans have been developed, but with no success.Plant material should be stored in germplasm banks, new species reintroduction plans should be implemented, surveillance on its population should be increased and its area of presence should be considered a grazing exclusion area. Research about its taxonomy should be developed, involving genetic analysis.

redListAssessors:
Acevedo Rodríguez, A., Rodríguez Martín, A. & Siverio Hernández, M.


taxonomicNotes:
Trifolium alexandrinum L. belongs to section Trifolium and is a secondary wild relative of crimson clover (T. incarnatum L.) and red clover (T. pratense L.) (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010).

redListCategoryRationale:
European regional assessment: Not Applicable (NA) EU 27 regional assessment: Not Applicable (NA)Trifolium alexandrium is widely naturalised but not regarded as native to Europe, therefore is Not Applicable.

range:
T. alexandrinum is widely cultivated globally (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010), EURO+Med Plantbase (2006) record the species as widely cultivated in the warmer parts of Europe and locally naturalised.

population:
Impossible to estimate as widely naturalised but not native.

habitat:
T. alexandrium is an annual legume and flowers between April and May. Little information is available regarding wild varieties as it is extensively cultivated. It is known that it is tolerant to annual precipitation between 380 mm and 1,660 mm, annual mean temperatures between 7.0ºC and 26.7ºC, and soil pH ranging from 4.9 to 7.8 (Duke 1981).

threats:
Impossible to estimate as widely naturalised but not native.

conservationAction:
T. alexandrinum has germplasm stored ex situ in several genebanks worldwide, most notably the Trifolium Genetic Resource Centre in Perth, Australia (186 accessions), and the National Plant Germplasm System in Washington, USA (118 accessions). In total, 462 accessions are stored ex situ in genebanks (Lamont et al. 2001).

useAndTrade:
T. alexandrinum #is a potential gene donor to the cultivated crops crimson clover (T. incarnatum) and red clover (T. pratense). In its wild form it could also be a gene donor to cultivated T. alexandrinum which is used as a forage crop and a soil improver (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010).


taxonomicNotes:
Trifolium alpestre L. belongs to the section Trifolium, and is a secondary wild relative of the cultivated crops crimson clover (T. incarnatum L.)  and red clover (T. pratense L.) (Zohary and Heller 1980). The species contains various varieties and varieties native to Europe, namely Trifolium alpestre L. var. alpestre, Trifolium alpestre var. lanigerum Ser. in DC, Trifolium alpestre L. var. durmitoreum Rohlena.

redListCategoryRationale:
European regional assessment: Least Concern (LC)    EU 27 regional assessment: Least Concern (LC)        Trifolium alpestre is a relatively common species found widely in eastern and southern Europe in several habitats that do not appear to be suffering major specific threats, as such European populations appears to be stable although limited area studies do indicate localised threat, therefore overall it is regionally assessed in Europe as Least Concern.

range:
T. alpestre is native to most  of central, eastern and southern Europe, as well as parts of western Asia (Zohary and Hellier 1980). In France it is relatively widespread in the eastern half of the country, also recorded in the southwestern departments of   Hautes-Pyrénées and   Pyrénées-Atlantiques (Association Tela Botanica 2010).

population:
The exact population size is unknown, but the species is considered to be common and widespread throughout eastern and southern Europe.

habitat:
T. alpestre is a perennial legume, and grows in pastures, meadows and forest clearings, flowering between June and August (Zohary and Heller 1984).

threats:
There appears to be no major threats. It is found in several habitats which are not threatened within its range.  However, local assessments by Colling (2005) and Gärdenfors (2005) have both found T. alpestre to be threatened, further Gärdenfors (2005) found the species to be Endangered, whereas Colling classified it as Critically Endangered (BGCI 2009). Classified as Least Concern (LC) in Denmark (P. Wind # pers. comm. 2010).

conservationAction:
Trifolium alpestre is specifically   listed in    Annex I of the International Treaty on Plant Genetic   Resources for    Food and Agriculture as part of the forage legume gene pool so warrants specific conservation attention.Ex situ     seed samples are   available in the Institute of Botany (Yerevan,   Armenia), N.I. Vavilov  All-Russian Scientific Research Institute of   Plant  Industry Russian  Federation, Syrian National (Douma, Damascus,   Syria), Aegean    Agricultural Research Institiute (Menemen, Turkey),   ICARDA (Aleppo,    Syria) and University of Reading (Reading, UK) gene    banks. # 60 accessions of T. alpestre  are being held currently at the Regional Plant Introduction Station in   Washington, USA (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010).    EURISCO reports 82 germplasm accessions held in European genebanks, 55 of which are reported to be of wild or weedy origin. Of the wild accessions, 40 originate from within Europe (EURISCO Catalogue 2010).  In situ   the   species  is likely to be  passively conserved in many existing     protected areas in throughout its range but as  its  conservation in     these sites is not actively monitored it may be  subject  to population     loss over time from factors such as climate  change.Classified as Least Concern (LC) in Denmark (Den Danske Rødliste 2010).

useAndTrade:
This species is not cultivated but natural  wild populations are grazed by wild and domesticated  animal species.As a crop wild relative and potential gene donor T. alpestre L. is a secondary wild relative of the cultivated crops crimson clover (T. incarnatum L.)  and red clover (T. pratense L.) (Zohary and Hellier 1980) and more remotely to cultivated crop white clover (T. repens L.) (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010).


taxonomicNotes:
Trifolium ambiguum M. Bieb. belongs to the section Trifoliastrum, and is a secondary wild relative of the cultivated crops ball clover (T. nigrescens Viv.), and white clover (T. repens L.) and is a tertiary wild relative of the cultivated crops crimson clover (T. incarnatum L.)  and red clover (T. pratense L.) (Zohary and Heller 1980). The species is very variable in size and indumetum but not subspecies or varieties are accepted.

redListCategoryRationale:
European regional assessment: Least Concern (LC)    EU 27 regional assessment: Least Concern (LC)        Trifolium ambiguum  is a restricted species in eastern Europe in several habitats that do not appear to be suffering major  specific threats, as such European populations appears to be stable, therefore  overall it is regionally assessed in Europe as Least Concern.

range:
T. ambiguum is native to parts of eastern Europe, western Asia but is primarily distributed in the Caucasus (Zohary and Hellier 1980).

population:
The exact population size is unknown, but the species is considered to be sporadic but stable in eastern Europe and common and widespread in the Caucasus.

habitat:
T. ambiguum grows on steep scree slopes, forest borders, eroded banks, stream sides and fields (Zohary and Heller 1984). # It is a perennial legume, flowering between June and August, and is commonly found on non calcareous clays and clay loams. It is tolerant to average annual rainfall of 930 mm, mean temperatures between 8.4ºC and 12.5ºC, and soil pH between 4.5 and 7.3 (Duke 1981).

threats:
Trifolium ambiguum is a relatively restricted species in eastern Europe that is found in several habitats which are not threatened within its range.

conservationAction:
Trifolium ambiguum is  specifically   listed in    Annex I of the International Treaty on Plant  Genetic   Resources for    Food and Agriculture as part of the forage  legume gene pool so warrants specific conservation attention.Ex situ      seed samples are   available in the Institute of Botany (Yerevan,    Armenia), N.I. Vavilov  All-Russian Scientific Research Institute of    Plant  Industry Russian  Federation, Syrian National (Douma, Damascus,    Syria), Aegean    Agricultural Research Institiute (Menemen, Turkey),    ICARDA (Aleppo,    Syria) and University of Reading (Reading, UK) gene     banks. # 115 accessions are being held currently at the Regional Plant Introduction Station in    Washington, USA (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010).    EURISCO reports 63 germplasm accessions held in European genebanks, nine of which are reported to be of wild or weedy origin. Of the wild accessions, only two originate from within Europe. These two accessions originate from Ukraine and are stored in Plant Breeding and Acclimatization Institute, Poland (one) and Ustymivka Experimental Station of Plant Production, Ukraine (one) (EURISCO Catalogue 2010).  In situ    the   species  is likely to be  passively conserved in many existing      protected areas in throughout its range but as  its  conservation in      these sites is not actively monitored it may be  subject  to  population     loss over time from factors such as climate  change.

useAndTrade:
T. ambiguum # is not cultivated but natural  wild populations are grazed by wild and domesticated  animal species. It has several uses which would be of commercial interest.&# Firstly as a gene donor for T. repens,  as it is resistant to many diseases and also has substantial drought  tolerance and winter hardiness. It is also of economic importance in  bee keeping, or more precisely honey production, due to its easily  accessible nectar which has a high sugar content (Duke 1981).As a crop wild relative and potential gene donor it is a secondary wild relative of white clover (T. repens L.) and a more remote tertiary of crimson clover (T. incarnatum L.)  and red clover (T. pratense L.) (Zokhary and Hellier 1980).


taxonomicNotes:
Trifolium angustifolium L. belongs to the section Trifolium, and is a secondary wild relative of the cultivated crops crimson clover (T. incarnatum L.), and red clover (Trifolium pratense L.) (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010). The species has two varieties native to Europe: Trifolium angustifolium L. var. angustifolium and Trifolium angustifolium L. var. intermedium Gib. & Belli (Zohary and Heller 1980).

redListCategoryRationale:
European regional assessment: Least Concern (LC) EU 27 regional assessment: Least Concern (LC) Trifolium angustifolium is widespread and there are no known threats, therefore it is regionally classified in Europe as Least Concern.

range:
T. angustifolium is native to many regions in central, eastern and southern Europe, as well as western Asia, the Caucasus, parts of north Africa, the Madeira Islands and the Canary Islands. It has been naturalised in the Azores (Zohary and Hellier 1980, USDA, ARS, National  Genetic Resources Program 2010). In France it is relatively widespread in the southeastern, southern, southwestern and western departments. Also occurs in the northern departments of Somme, Oise and Aisne (Association Tela Botanica 2010).

population:
The exact population size is unknown, but the species is considered common across Europe from the Canary Islands to Iran. It is found in a variety of habitats and populations are stable.

habitat:
T. angustifolium grows in fallow fields, steppes, open plant communities and meadows. It is an annual legume, flowering between March and April (Zohary and Heller 1984).

threats:
Trifolium angustifolium is a common species in Europe, that is found in several habitats which are not threatened within its range.

conservationAction:
Trifolium angustifolium is   specifically   listed in    Annex I of the International Treaty on Plant   Genetic   Resources for    Food and Agriculture as part of the forage   legume gene pool so warrants specific conservation attention.Ex situ       seed samples are   available in numerous gene banks with the largest collections being held by the N.I. Vavilov  All-Russian Scientific Research Institute of     Plant  Industry Russian  Federation, Aegean    Agricultural Research Institiute  (Menemen, Turkey),    ICARDA (Aleppo,    Syria) and University of Aberystwyth (Aberystwyth , UK) gene     banks. 43 accessions are being held currently at the Regional Plant Introduction Station  in    Washington, USA (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program  2010).    EURISCO reports 122 germplasm accessions held in European genebanks, 60 of which are reported to be of wild or weedy origin. Of the wild accessions, 41 originate from within Europe (EURISCO Catalogue 2010).  In situ    the    species  is likely to be  passively conserved in many existing       protected areas in throughout its range but as  its  conservation in       these sites is not actively monitored it may be  subject  to   population     loss over time from factors such as climate  change.

useAndTrade:
T. angustifolium is a potential gene donor to the cultivated crops crimson clover (T.  incarnatum L.), and red clover (T. pratense L.) (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources  Program 2010). It is a relatively large plant and natural  wild populations are grazed by wild and domesticated  animal species.


taxonomicNotes:
Trifolium argutum Banks & Sol. belongs to the section Vesicastrum (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010), and is a secondary wild relative of white clover, T. repens L. (Zohary and Heller 1980, Morris et al. 2009).

redListCategoryRationale:
European regional assessment: Near Threatened (NT)EU 27 regional assessment: Near Threatened (NT)Trifolium argutum  is a restricted species in Europe only found in Greece and Cyprus but here in several habitats that do not appear to be suffering major  specific  threats. However the situation could change rapidly if tourist activities and over-grazing are increased, so populations should be monitored. The extent of occurrence (EOO) is less than 11,000 km2 and the quality of its habitat is decreasing mainly due to tourist activities. Currently European populations appears to be stable, but due to the restricted distribution and threat it is regionally assessed in Europe as Near Threatened.

range:
In Europe, T. argutum is only native to Greece (Rhodes) and Cyprus (where it was found in nine sites), but it is also found widely in western Asia (Zohary and Hellier 1980, USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010). The extent of occurrence (EOO) is less than 11,000 km2.

population:
This is a common species in the Near East with its western edge of distribution just getting into Europe, therefore it is much rarer in Europe. Where it is found it is often found with large population sizes. In Cyprus, the population size is estimated to be more than 2,500 individuals.

habitat:
T. argutum is frequently found in semi-natural grasslands that exist after grazing has heavily deteriorated woodlands or forests (Lamont et al. 2001). It also grows in fields, among scrub and on roadsides. It is an annual legume, and flowers between January and May (Zohary and Heller 1984). In Cyprus, it is also found in old stabilised sand dunes, in rocky pastures, waste grounds, but never far from the coast.

threats:
The biggest threat in Europe to T. argutum (and all wild species of Trifolium) is overgrazing, generally during the seed production months in the summer (Lamont et al. 2001). In Cyprus, it occurs near tourist areas.

conservationAction:
Trifolium argutum is    not specifically   listed in    Annex I of the International Treaty on  Plant   Genetic   Resources for    Food and Agriculture as part of the priority forage   legume gene pool.Ex situ        seed samples are   available in numerous gene banks with the largest  collections being held by the Aegean     Agricultural Research Institiute  (Menemen, Turkey),    ICARDA  (Aleppo,    Syria) and University of Aberystwyth (Aberystwyth, UK) gene      banks. Eight accessions are being held currently at the Regional Plant Introduction Station   in    Washington, USA (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program   2010).    EURISCO reports six germplasm accessions held in European genebanks, none of which are reported to be of wild or weedy origin (EURISCO Catalogue 2010).  In situ    the     species  is likely to be  passively conserved in many existing        protected areas in throughout its range but as  its  conservation in        these sites is not actively monitored it may be  subject  to    population     loss over time from factors such as climate  change.Accessions from Cyprus should be gathered. A monitoring programme should be implemented.

useAndTrade:
T. argutum is a secondary wild relative and potential gene donor to white clover, T. repens L. Natural wild populations are grazed by wild and domesticated animal species.


taxonomicNotes:
Trifolium arvense L. belongs to the section Trifolium, and is a secondary wild relative of the cultivated crops crimson clover (T. incarnatum L.), and red clover (T. pratense L.) (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program 2010). The species contains two varieties native to Europe: Trifolium arvense L. var. arvense and Trifolium arvense L. var. gracile (Thuill.) DC. (Zohary and Heller 1980).

redListCategoryRationale:
European regional assessment: Least Concern (LC)EU 27 regional assessment: Least Concern (LC)Trifolium arvense due to its widespread distribution and no major threats, is regionally classified in Europe as Least Concern.

range:
T. arvense has a wide distribution, being native to most of Europe, western and central Asia and northern and northeastern Africa. It has also been naturalised in Australasia, North America and the Azores (USDA, ARS, National  Genetic Resources Program 2010). In France it is widespread, recorded in all departments except Lot to the south (Association Tela Botanica 2010). In the UK it has a relatively widespread distribution throughout England and Wales (Preston et al. 2002). Its distribution within Scotland becomes patchier further north and is largely absent in the northwest (Preston et al. 2002). Its distribution in Northern Ireland is also limited, occurring in only 23 localities (Preston et al. 2002) and in Ireland it is confined to coastal areas around the country, occurring in only 33 localities (Preston et al. 2002).

population:
The exact population size is unknown, but the species is considered common across Europe from Britain to Iran and throuhout north Africa. It is found in a variety of habitats and populations are stable.

habitat:
T. arvense grows in open, pioneer plant communities, as well as meadows, fields, roadsides and wastelands. It is an annual legume, and flowers between March and May (Zohary and Heller 1984).  In the UK this lowland species is able to grow in open rocky or sandy habitats which include acidic heathlands, sea cliffs and sand dunes (Preston et al. 2002). In addition, this species grows on railway ballast, inland waste ground, disturbed grassland and set-aside fields where it prefers light, sandy soils (Preston et al. 2002).

threats:
There appears to be no major threats and this species is  found in several habitats which are not threatened  within its  range.In the UK, according to Preston et al. (2002) there has been a widespread decline of this species in the southeast of England since 1950.

conservationAction:
Trifolium arvense is    specifically   listed in    Annex I of the International Treaty on  Plant   Genetic   Resources for    Food and Agriculture as part of the  forage   legume gene pool so warrants specific conservation  attention.Ex situ        seed samples are   available in numerous gene banks with the largest  collections being held by the N.I. Vavilov  All-Russian Scientific  Research Institute of     Plant  Industry Russian  Federation, Aegean     Agricultural Research Institiute  (Menemen, Turkey),    ICARDA  (Aleppo,    Syria) and University of Aberystwyth (Aberystwyth , UK) gene      banks. 53 accessions are being held currently at the Regional Plant Introduction Station   in    Washington, USA (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources Program   2010).    EURISCO reports 176 germplasm accessions held in European genebanks, 90 of which are reported to be of wild or weedy origin. Of the wild accessions, 64 originate from within Europe (EURISCO Catalogue 2010).  In situ    the     species  is likely to be  passively conserved in many existing        protected areas in throughout its range but as  its  conservation in        these sites is not actively monitored it may be  subject  to    population     loss over time from factors such as climate  change.Classified as Least Concern (LC) in Denmark (Den Danske Rødliste 2010).

useAndTrade:
T. arvense is a secondary crop wild relative and potential gene donor to the cultivated crops crimson clover (T.  incarnatum L.), and red clover (T. pratense L.) (USDA, ARS, National Genetic Resources  Program 2010). Natural  wild populations are grazed by wild and domesticated  animal species.


