A study on the taxonomic and conservation status, and ecological characteristics of Draba lasiocarpa (Brassicaceae): A new record for the flora of Türkiye

Draba lasiocarpa (Brassicaceae), collected from Küre Mountains National Park in Kastamonu Province, is reported for the first time in the flora of Türkiye. The purpose of this study is to determine the taxonomic and conservation status, as well as the ecological characteristics of the species. During field studies conducted in 2022-2025, individual counts and coordinates of the species were recorded, along with additional field observations. A brief description of D. lasiocarpa, accompanied by photographs and a distribution map, is presented. Furthermore, its taxonomic relationship with closely related taxa is examined and discussed. A new diagnostic key for the section Aizopsis of the genus Draba in Türkiye is also provided. As a result, the IUCN threat categories, EUNIS habitat type, and various ecological characteristics (altitude, slope, aspect, bedrock, and soil type) of the species are determined for Türkiye. This study contributes a new distribution area for the species to the existing literature. Additionally, information regarding the IUCN threat category specific to Türkiye, the EUNIS habitat type associated with its distribution area, and the species' ecological requirements and relationships with environmental variables are compiled.