Features of the root system
The ageotropic sclerified roots mentioned in the description are a
systematically important but variable feature. For all representatives
of the genus Gagea , even for seedlings (Levichev 1999a, Fig. 3,
4), the annual formation of 2 types of annual roots is mandatory. These
are thin feeding and, usually, thickened, with a pronounced ageotropic
(horizontally and upwards) orientation and sclerified (Pascher 1942).
The last type of roots, after dying off, performs the function of an
underground velamen (Levichev and Kurbaniyazova 2022, Fig. 1). InG. iranshahrii , both types of roots differ little. The sclerified
roots are slightly thicker and loosely entwine the bulb horizontally
(Figs. 1, B-B’”).
Spreading .
G. iranshahrii (sect. Stipitatae , ser. Stipitatae )
occupies a compact area in eastermost hyrcanian area within the
catchment area of the Atrak River (Fig. 3).
G. subtilis (sect. Stipitatae , ser. Stipitatae ) is
a local endemic of Mogoltau and the Turkestan Ranges.
G. vanensis (sect. Stipitatae , ser. Stipitatae ) was
recently described from Eastern Anatolia (Turkey), where it lives among
steppe vegetation at altitudes of about 2000 m above sea level.
G. namanganica (sect. Stipitatae , ser. Stipitatae )
was found in the northern foothills of the Fergana valley (Levichev et
al., in press). The taxon grows on dry foothills (800 - 900 m a.s.l) in
the pasture, above farming zone.
G. tenera (sect. Didymobolbos (K. Koch) Boiss., sect.tenerae Levichev) is distributed in Turkey, Iran, Afghanistan,
and Central Asia. It lives in the middle belt of mountains, reaching
2000 or more meters above sea level.