The Turkish tulip, known as the ancestor of the tulip, is among the species that should be protected with its genetic diversity and endemic structure. Pınar Kınıklı, Projects Officer of the Antalya Orchids and Biological Diversity Conservation Association (ANTOK), said, "Instead of buying this species from abroad, we can use our own resources in our parks and gardens."

ANTOK Projects Officer Pınar Kınıklı provided information about the endemic plant conservation efforts carried out in Antalya. Stating that they have carried out many national and international projects since 2010, Kınıklı said that they are carrying out important studies especially for the conservation of endangered species. Stating that endemic plant species were identified throughout Antalya within the scope of projects supported by the European Union, Kınıklı said, "As a result of our studies, we identified the 40 most endangered plant species. We carried out various projects in cooperation with the Regional Directorate of Forestry and Nature Conservation National Parks to protect these species."

SPREAD FROM MANISA TO THE MEDITERRANEAN

Emphasizing that one of the most important species taken under protection is the Turkish tulip, Kınıklı said, "This species spreads from Manisa to the Mediterranean. It is extremely important because it is unique to Turkey. It is a plant that attracts attention with its red-eyed flowers that herald the spring." Stating that the Turkish tulip is considered the ancestor of tulips, Kınıklı said, "The tulip species used in parks and gardens today are cultured forms that have been subjected to genetic studies. However, the homeland of the tulip is Turkey. It is of great importance to study and protect this plant, whose genetic material was taken abroad and developed in history, in our country again."

'WE CAN INCREASE THE GENETIC DIVERSITY OF THE TULIP'

Emphasizing the importance of protecting and promoting the Turkish tulip, known as the ancestor of the tulip, Kınıklı stated that these kinds of plants growing in Turkey should be taken care of. Underlining the development in tulip production with Turkey being the homeland of the tulip, Kınıklı said, "Instead of buying this species from abroad, we can use our own resources in our parks and gardens. In fact, by doing more work, we can increase the genetic diversity of the tulip and sell it abroad."