Morphological and Molecular Characterization of Terfezia claveryi and its Distribution in Türkiye

The samples were collected from Ankara, Gaziantep, Konya, Niğde, and Şanlıurfa (Türkiye), between 2020 and 2023. Morphological analyses and nrITS rDNA sequence-based phylogenetic methods were used to examine the samples. Twenty-one specimens displayed morphological features consistent with Terfezia claveryi Chatin at both macro and micro levels. Genetic analysis revealed over 99% sequence similarity with this species. Detailed documentation included habitat descriptions, geographical coordinates, collection dates, and photographic records of macroscopic and microscopic structures. These findings contribute valuable insights into the distribution and taxonomy of T. claveryi in Türkiye.