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<p><i>Pyrus glabra</i> Boiss., is a wild pear species endemic to Iran, known for its resilience and multipurpose usage. This comprehensive review explores its geographic distribution, ecology, adaptive traits, potential uses, and conservation status. Field surveys and literature indicate that <i>P. glabra</i> is restricted to the Zagros Mountains, along western and southwestern Iran, typically found at altitudes between 1500 and 2500 m. It thrives in arid summers, cold winters, and a variety of soil types and conditions. Its deep root system and drought tolerance contributes to soil stabilization and maintenance of vegetation cover in harsh environments. Ecologically, healthy <i>P. glabra</i> stands increase soil organic matter and carbon sequestration via litter inputs and root turnover, provide habitat for wildlife, and support pollinators through their nectar-rich flowers. Both plants and seeds of <i>Pyrus glabra</i> are commonly named “Anchouchak” by the local people. This plant is mainly popular for its large and nutritious seeds that contain 22–33% oil. This oil is rich in unsaturated fatty acids, comprising approximately 50% oleic acid and 35–40% linoleic acid, making it comparable to commercially valuable nuts and a promising source of omega-9 and omega-6 lipids. Ethnobotanical records suggest additional medicinal applications, including diuretic and anti-inflammatory effects, highlighting its potential for pharmaceutical development. Genetic research revealed significant phenotypic, biochemical, and genotypic diversity within the species, underscoring its potential value in pear rootstock breeding as a source for induction of stress-resistance in the scion cultivar. The use of this plant for pear is of paramount importance as there is a serious void in the availability of stress-tolerant rootstocks for modern high density pear production worldwide. Some evidence also suggests that certain Iranian pear cultivars may be derived from <i>P. glabra</i>. Despite its potential, the species faces extinction due to overharvesting, habitat fragmentation, and extremely low regeneration rates (i.e., poor seed viability, water shortage, and propagation challenges). Less than 5% of its natural habitat is currently under protection. These findings highlight the urgent need for in situ conservation and propagation efforts to safeguard this valuable genetic resource for sustainable agriculture and ecosystem restoration in the region.</p>

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A Comprehensive review on the distribution, ecology, conservation, and usage of “anchuchak” (Pyrus glabra Boiss.) in Iran

  • 期刊论文

  • 发表日期：

    2025年12月6日

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  • Ali Gharaghani,
  • Ahmad Fotoohi,
  • Ziba Omidifard,
  • Esmaeil Fallahi

摘要

Pyrus glabra Boiss., is a wild pear species endemic to Iran, known for its resilience and multipurpose usage. This comprehensive review explores its geographic distribution, ecology, adaptive traits, potential uses, and conservation status. Field surveys and literature indicate that P. glabra is restricted to the Zagros Mountains, along western and southwestern Iran, typically found at altitudes between 1500 and 2500 m. It thrives in arid summers, cold winters, and a variety of soil types and conditions. Its deep root system and drought tolerance contributes to soil stabilization and maintenance of vegetation cover in harsh environments. Ecologically, healthy P. glabra stands increase soil organic matter and carbon sequestration via litter inputs and root turnover, provide habitat for wildlife, and support pollinators through their nectar-rich flowers. Both plants and seeds of Pyrus glabra are commonly named “Anchouchak” by the local people. This plant is mainly popular for its large and nutritious seeds that contain 22–33% oil. This oil is rich in unsaturated fatty acids, comprising approximately 50% oleic acid and 35–40% linoleic acid, making it comparable to commercially valuable nuts and a promising source of omega-9 and omega-6 lipids. Ethnobotanical records suggest additional medicinal applications, including diuretic and anti-inflammatory effects, highlighting its potential for pharmaceutical development. Genetic research revealed significant phenotypic, biochemical, and genotypic diversity within the species, underscoring its potential value in pear rootstock breeding as a source for induction of stress-resistance in the scion cultivar. The use of this plant for pear is of paramount importance as there is a serious void in the availability of stress-tolerant rootstocks for modern high density pear production worldwide. Some evidence also suggests that certain Iranian pear cultivars may be derived from P. glabra. Despite its potential, the species faces extinction due to overharvesting, habitat fragmentation, and extremely low regeneration rates (i.e., poor seed viability, water shortage, and propagation challenges). Less than 5% of its natural habitat is currently under protection. These findings highlight the urgent need for in situ conservation and propagation efforts to safeguard this valuable genetic resource for sustainable agriculture and ecosystem restoration in the region.