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This is a preliminary biological study of Crotalaria similis Hemsl., an endemic species restricted to the Hengchun Peninsula of Taiwan. Based on the populations from two different habitats, no significant morphological differences between them are present while they are quite distinct in reproductive biology. On the basis of all examined samples, mostly (91.2%) less than 30 reproductive shoots present on each individual. In general, around 85.6% of individuals have inflorescence with unique or two flowers while 92.8% of them bear less than two pods. Generally, the plants from sandy substrate (Fong-Chuei-Sha) have higher fecundity than that from grassland (Long-Pang). It is believed to be affected by environmental factors because genetic identity is extremely high between plants from different habitats. According to the dispersion pattern (contagious dispersion) in grassland, density of seedlings and reproductive potential, I suspect that the establishment of the populations at grassland were affected by formation of karst topography. However, the populations on sandy substrate were not confined by these factors. Flowering period is mostly in October through June and correlated with the distribution of rainfall. The mating system carries both autogamy and facultative xenogamy; therefore, it is rational that the genetic heterogeneity of this species is higher than most endemic plants with limited distribution or autogamy plants. Since the survival of Crotalaria similis is threatened by low recruitment, habitat alternation and stochastic events, I would like to suggest to elevate the conservation status of this species from "vulnerable" to "endangered". Moreover, it is recommended to proceed promising conservation actions to preserve the unique grassland at Long-Pang and sandy habitat at Fong-Chuei-Sha for sustainment of this endangered species.
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