Relict species and the challenges for conservation: the emblematic case of zelkova sicula di pasquale, garfi et quézel and the efforts to save it from extinction

”The foreseen rapid climate changes are thought to represent a major threat for many plant spe- cies. Owing to that, in the Mediterranean Basin, one the most important area worldwide for biodiversity, a number of taxa are at risk of extinction, especially the endemics and the rarest ones. Within them a particular significance is recognised to the pre-glacial relicts, that are rather conspicuous in the area and represent a valuable heritage for their biogeographical relevance and evolutionary history. Zelkova sicula is one of the most prominent plants within this flora. To date, it is a very rare species, and due to a number of threatening factors it is on the brink of extinction. In the present paper, we discuss the main topics related to its conservation criti- calities and the ongoing integrated strategies to save it from extinction. Particular emphasis is addressed to assisted colonisation, a “last resort” conservation approach consisting in the esta- blishment of pilot-planting out of the species native range.” (source : auteurs)