A NEW DISTRIBUTION AREA OF KADINCIK SHRUB (Flueggea anatolica Gemici) IN TURKEY

Kadincik shrub (Flueggea anatolica Gemici), which was recently found in Turkey, is a relict and endemic shrub species. The only known distribution area of the species up to today occurs near the Kadincik I Dam in Tarsus district, Mersin province. A new distribution area of this species was found by us at Gedikli village of Kozan district, Adana province. In this article, the above-mentioned two distribution areas of the species were introduced. The species has a very local distribution in the two areas. Because the number of its individuals is very limited, the existence of the species is under risk. The existing distribution areas and gene resources of this species, which is important for sustaining Turkey's biodiversity, should be protected. Keywords: Kadincik shrub, Natural distribution, Biodiversity