Assessment of the Conservation Status of the Rare Woody Plant Species of Karak, Northwestern Pakistan

Abstract

This study seeks to evaluate the conservation status of 14 rare woody plant species in the Karak region.  Population estimations for 14 chosen species are carried out based on data available in the last 3 generations using IUCN red list categories and criteria.. Furthermore, surveys (2022-2024) are conducted in surrounding areas with respondents aged 60 years and above to gain a deeper understanding of the local community's view on the population trends of these species. Extent of Occurrence (EOO) and Area of Occupancy (AOO) are caculated for the top threatened species. Results of the investigation shows that the Salvadora oleoides is Critically Endangered (CR) in the study region, under the criteria "A2abcd; A3bc, B1B2bc (i, ii, iii)' D1", Tamarix aphylla CR "A2acd; A3bc, B1B2bc (i, ii, iii)", Calligonum polygonoides CR "A2abcd; A3bc, B1bc (i, ii, iii)" D1", Capparis decidua EN "A2acd; A3bc, B1B2bc (i, ii, iii)", Acacia modesta Endangered (EN) "A2abcd; A3bc, B1B2bc (i, ii, iii)", Albizia lebbeck EN"A2abd; A3bc, B1B2bc (i, ii, iii)", Vitex negundo EN "A2abd; A3bc, B1B2bc (i, ii, iii)", Gymnosporia royleana EN "A2abd; A3bc, B1B2bc (i, ii, iii)", Periploca aphylla EN "A2abd; A3bc, B1B2bc (ii, iii)", Alhagi maurorum EN "A2abd; B1B2bc (i, ii, iii)", Olea ferruginea Vulnerable (VU) "A2abcd; A3bc", Ziziphus mauritiana VU "A2abcd; A3bc", Rhazya stricta VU "A2abcd; A3bc", and Monotheca buxifolia VU "A2acd; A3bc". The proposed study clearly emphasize the necessity of conservation endeavors to prevent further losses in woody plant populations in the Karak area. Conservation strategies are needed to focus on habitat restoration, sustainable land management, and community involvement.