Filters
Biology and ecology of Juniperus phoenicea – J. turbinata – J. canariensis complex II. Genetics, physiology, ecology
This is a review of the literature on genetics, physiology, and ecology, which concerns Juniperus phoenicea, J. turbinata, and J. canariensis, forming together the complex J. phoenicea. Despite the numerous and varied studies, many gaps and deficiences have been identified in these fields. Further research is particularly needed on the genetic diversity and differentiation of all three species across their entire geographic ranges, with special attention on the easternmost localities of J. turbinata. Additional studies on the real photon flux density requirements, transpiration efficiency, water relations, nutrient demands, and mycorrhizal symbiosis for each species and across different locations, depending on the site conditions, would be highly valuable. The phytocoenological characteristics of J. turbinata and J. phoenicea, and their roles in particular phytocoenoses are fairly well recognized. However, data on J. canariensis and J. turbinata on the Arabian Peninsula should be expanded.
Biology and ecology of the Juniperus phoenicea – J. turbinata – J. canariensis complex I. Taxonomy, structure and distribution
The Juniperus phoenicea complex consists of three taxa: J. phoenicea sensu stricto (s.s.), J. turbinata, and J. canariensis. A review of the literature on the biology of these taxa was conducted, focusing on taxonomy with paleo-data, structure, and geographical distribution to present current knowledge on these topics. Information on ecology, disease, utilization, and conservation will be presented in forthcoming parts of this monograph. Each of the three species included in the J. phoenicea complex is a monoecious or sometimes dioecious, evergreen gymnosperm with scale leaves when adult. The morphological differences between them are minor and mainly quantitative. This enables separation of taxa using a combination of traits. However, genetic features such as isozymes and nuclear microsatellites allow adequate differentiation from each other. Juniperus phoenicea s.s. occurs in the western part of the Mediterranean region, J. turbinata is circum-Mediterranean, while J. canariensis exists only on the Canary Islands, except Lanzarote and Fuerteventura, and on the Madeira archipelago. All species contain volatile oils which are used as traditional remedies for many various human and animal diseases, primarily in African and Asiatic countries. The published information for these topics is reviewed.