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.