Revisiting the genus (Liliaceae) in Kazakhstan, the country with the richest tulip diversity worldwide.

The genus L., belonging to the Liliaceae family, has significant economic, horticultural, and ecological importance and is culturally revered in various regions worldwide. The total number of species, including 90-120 taxa, varies based on different sources. Globally, Kazakhstan has one of the highest diversities of species, most of which are threatened. In this study, we update and revise the species in Kazakhstan based on field observations and an extensive herbarium specimens' survey. A total of 41 taxa were identified, including 13 species endemic to Kazakhstan, among which seven species have been assessed as threatened globally. Furthermore, we gathered 1,942 occurrence records of 41 taxa to analyze spatial arrangement of species richness in Kazakhstan. Based on these results, we identified 22 grid cells with a high diversity of tulip species in southern Kazakhstan. We also present taxonomic key for all species occurring in Kazakhstan, along with comments on their general distribution, habitat, phenology, distribution map, and conservation status. In addition, a color plate for each species is provided. Overall, our study provides valuable insights into the conservation status, distribution patterns, and biodiversity of species in Kazakhstan, laying a foundation for targeted conservation efforts and further research in the region.