Geographical distribution characteristics of rare or endangered plants and national key protected plants in Qinghai Province

Based on the published literatures and the specimen records, the ArcGIS software was used to analyze the spatial distribution pattern of rare or endangered plants and national key protected plants among prefectures and counties of Qinghai Province. The results of this study indicated the rare or endangered plants and national key protected plants were found in each prefecture throughout Qinghai Province. The species richness was the highest in Yushu Prefecture with 73 species, accounting for 50% of the total species; the lowest species richness was found in Haixi Prefecture with 26 species. As far as county distribution was concerned, the rare and endangered species was very different among counties. 57 species was identified in Yushu County, but Gande County had only 5 species, which would provide the theoretical basis for the protection and development utilization of rare or endangered plants and national key protected plants in Qinghai Province.