Chamomile of Sierra Nevada
A plant belonging to the Compositae or Asteraceae family. It was described by the Swiss botanist Edmond Boissier, who travelled to southern Spain in 1837. During his expedition, he identified the Spanish fir in Sierra Bermeja as a new species. In the same publication where he described this fir tree, he also documented several other species, including the one under discussions here. He noted its presence in the high peaks of the Sierra Nevada, as well as its medicinal use and its local name, manzanilla real (royal chamomile).
Distribution
The species is endemic to the high peaks of the Sierra Nevada, ranging from Cerro del Caballo in the province of Granada to Almirez in the province of Almería.
Habitat
This species is endemic to high-altitude regions, where snow and wind are frequent, and is found in dry high mountain pastures, more or less stony, as well as in fissures and ledges of outcropping schist rocks. It is found between 2400 and 3400 metres above sea level. The flowering period is from June to August, with seed dispersal occurring in late summer or early autumn.
Conservation
There are currently 11 known populations, although only one of these is located in the Almería sector. Available data suggests that it was more abundant in the past, even in recent years. Ongoing monitoring has detected a decline in populations, and the total number of known and estimated specimens is fewer than 2000, which is a very low number for a species of these characteristics. The primary threat to its survival is climate change, which significantly impact high-mountain species. However, the main driver of its decline is the illegal harvesting for medicinal purposes, followed by its sale on the black market at high prices.
Images descriptions
The optical microscope image displays several achenes in lateral and ventral view, exhibiting a conico-ovoid morphology and a truncate upper face. The achenes have light brown longitudinal striations or ribs against a slightly darker background.
The scanning electron microscope image provides a high-resolution view of the achene´s upper part, showing the style embedded within it. The visible stylar scar resembles a volcanic crater, with the ribs or striae extending along the entire body of the achene.