PJB-2025-25
Age structure and demographic dynamics of Ammopiptanthus nanus an endangered species endemic to the western Tianshan mountains
Chenglin Zhu, Qichuan Jiang and Zhihao Su
Abstract
Ammopiptanthus nanus is an endangered shrub that is endemic to the western Tianshan Mountains. The populations have continuously declined due to anthropogenic disturbances recent years. Incorporating static life table, reproductive life table, and Leslie matrix model, population age structure and demographic dynamics were estimated to reveal the population viability of A. nanus. The Deevey-II survival curve, low net reproductive rate (R₀ = 0.7831), low intrinsic rate of increase (rm = -0.0281), and low finite rate of increase (λ = 0.9723), thus the age structure of the population exhibits a declining type. Leslie matrix model predicted the population size of A. nanus would decline by 35.8% over the next two decades. The small population size and rarity of seedlings and juveniles suggested difficulties in regeneration and a significant risk of extinction. With the aim of maintaining the viability of the species in the conservation plan, we suggest establishing a nature reserve to minimize human interference and setting up a germplasm resource nursery for the species' regeneration.
To Cite this article:
Zhu, C., Q. Jiang and Z. Su. 2026. Age structure and demographic dynamics of Ammopiptanthus nanus an endangered species endemic to the western Tianshan mountains. Pak. J. Bot., 58(1): DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.30848/PJB2026-1(21)
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