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Circumscription of the large genus Pultenaea Sm. has been contentious since shortly after description. We draw on recently generated phylogenomic data to provide a fully resolved phylogeny of Pultenaea and related genera based on near-complete species level sampling for the genus. Phylogenomic data divide Pultenaea sens. lat. into five independent lineages, corresponding to previously identified clades, that we recognise as distinct genera. Pultenaea sens. str. contains most of the currently recognised species and as circumscribed here, all of the species are endemic to eastern Australia except for P. tenuifolia R.Br. & Sims that extends across the Nullarbor into Western Australia. The genus Euchilus R.Br. is reinstated for eight species, all endemic to south-west Western Australia except for E. elachistus (F.Muell.) R.L.Barrett & Orthia that also occurs in South Australia. Three new genera are described, with all of the constituent species endemic to south-west Western Australia: Grievea R.L.Barrett, Clugston & Orthia, with two species, Jennata R.L.Barrett, Clugston & Orthia, with nine species and Loricobbia R.L.Barrett, Clugston & Orthia with six species. Pultenaea adunca Turcz. remains unplaced but we exclude this species from our concept of Pultenaea. Twenty-one new combinations are made: Euchilus aridus (E.Pritz.) R.L.Barrett & Orthia, E. calycinus subsp. proxenus (Orthia & Chappill) Orthia & R.L.Barrett, E. daena (Orthia & Chappill) Orthia & R.L.Barrett, E. elachistus (F.Muell.) R.L.Barrett & Orthia, Grievea brachytropis (Benth. ex Lindl.) R.L.Barrett & Orthia, G. craigiana (C.F.Wilkins, Orthia & Crisp) Orthia & R.L.Barrett, Jennata brachyphylla (Turcz.) R.L.Barrett & Clugston, J. empetrifolia (Meisn.) R.L.Barrett & Clugston, J. ericifolia (Benth.) R.L.Barrett & Clugston, J. indira (Orthia & Crisp) Orthia & R.L.Barrett, J. indira subsp. monstrosita (Orthia) Orthia & R.L.Barrett, J. indira subsp. pudoides (Orthia) Orthia & R.L.Barrett, J. radiata (H.B.Will.) R.L.Barrett & Clugston, J. strobilifera (Meisn.) R.L.Barrett & Clugston, J. verruculosa (Turcz.) R.L.Barrett & Clugston, Loricobbia aspalathoides (Meisn.) R.L.Barrett & T.D.Macfarl., L. ochreata (Meisn.) R.L.Barrett & T.D.Macfarl., L. pauciflora (M.B.Scott) R.L.Barrett & T.D.Macfarl., L. pinifolia (Meisn.) R.L.Barrett & T.D.Macfarl., L. reticulata (Sm.) R.L.Barrett & T.D.Macfarl. and L. skinneri (F.Muell.) R.L.Barrett & T.D.Macfarl. The bush-pea genus (Pultenaea) is one of the larger legume genera in Australia but has been difficult to define. We present a new classification of the group, recognising five genera instead of one using a large DNA based analysis of relationships. Three genera are newly described and one genus is reinstated, and these are almost entirely restricted to south-west Western Australia, with true Pultenaea being mostly restricted to eastern Australia. (Photograph by Russell Barrett.) This article belongs to the collection Genomics for Australian Plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT Aiouea is a genus of Lauraceae restricted to the New World with about 75 accepted species. In Brazil, there are about 32 species, 21 endemic to the country. Recent field work in southeastern Brazil, as well as a comprehensive study of herbarium collections, revealed a new species that we describe here as Aiouea myrmecophila. It is endemic to the Atlantic rainforest of Espírito Santo state and occurs between 800 and 1120 m along the Mantiqueira Mountain range. It is categorized as Endangered (EN) according to IUCN criteria. Its putative relationships with other species in the genus are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Objective] This study aims to examine the species diversity of the genus Corydalis in He􀆳nan, China, and to further identify species distribution. [Methods] After reviewing the literatures and specimens from the Chinese Virtual Herbarium (CVH), we conducted field investigations, took photos, and collected specimens. [Results] We confirmed three newly recorded species of Corydalis species in He􀆳nan Province, namely C. nanwutaishanensis Z.Y. Su & Lidén, C. ochotensis Turcz., and C. wilfordii Regel. We also verified that C. ensiana Lidén ex C. Y. Wu, H. Chuang & Z. Y. Su, and C. caudata (Lam.) Pers. were misidentified as C. curviflora Maxim. and C. humosa Migo. in previous literatures. In addition, we found a translation error in the label of C. pseudoincisa C.Y.Wu, Z.Y.Su & Lidén, which might not be distributed in He􀆳nan Province. [Conclusion] Three newly recorded species and three suspected species of Corydalis are reported in Henan Province, which are helpful for the study of biodiversity in He􀆳nan Province and the revision of Flora of He􀆳nan.

The results of herbarium investigation of the species belonging to the Sparganium erectum group are here presented. The study was based on the revision of specimens with ripe fruits preserved in the Herbarium Centrale Italicum (FI) of the Natural History Museum of the University of Florence and other local herbaria. The presence of Sparganium oocarpum, not yet recorded in Italy, has been confirmed by the evaluation and measurement of important diagnostic characters (shape of the fruit, length, and width of the fruit, length of the peduncle, length of the style) and by their statistical analysis. Finally, a new identification key for the four species belonging to S. erectum group, based on the Italian herbarium material studied, is proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was aimed to record new genus and species (Morettia philaeana). Through field survey trips to collect the wild plants from specific places at Western Desert District of Iraq, during the year 2022 and near the Rutba Dam on Wadi Houran at Jaffalah region (28km. south west of Rutba), the species Morettia philaeana (Delile) DC. was collected as a plants of the Cruciferae family, after confirming the identification as a new species in the country depending on the Flora of the neighboring countries of Iraq, the study included the morphological description of all floral and vegetative organs, as well as the anatomy of stem and the study of some characteristics of the stomatal complex in cauline leaves . These results were confirmed by microscopic and image with a map of distribution of species individuals. In order to document the genera and species recorded process for the first time in Iraq, some of the plant samples were deposited in the Iraqi National Herbarium with numbers 60411, 60412, 60413, and Anbar University Herbarium with numbers 5791, 5792 and 5793. A general review of Iraqi Universities Herbaria was previously conducted, as confirmed to us new species in Iraq. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Psychotria condorensis Pierre ex Pitard is an endemic species described from Con Dao National Park, Ba Ria-Vung Tau province, Vietnam. This study provides the lectotype of this species and describes its micromorphological along with phytochemical characteristics. These results are used as a monograph in the identification and standardization of medicinal materials, conservation assessment of this species, and contributes information for advancing further research on conservation and its biological activities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper continues the publication of Aspidistra species newly discovered in the flora of Vietnam. It includes an illustrated description of A. pentagona, found in the northern part of the country. Detailed analytical color illustrations, data on morphology and ecology, phenology, tentative relationships, distribution and expected conservation status are provided for the discovered species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: The seed morphologies of forty-five Eriocaulon species and infraspecies in Thailand are described in detail. Characteristics of the seed were carefully investigated via LM and SEM, including shape, size, shapes of both ends and colour. Details of the seed coat, testa cell shape, axis of elongation, alignment, ridges formed where adjacent cells are in contact, surface ornamentation and the presence and morphology of appendages arising from the cell walls, were all recorded. Combinations of these characters are effective for species delimitation and identification. Similarities in seed coat characters and the relationships of floral structure between closely related taxa are discussed. Hygroscopic seed coat appendages are recorded and described for Eriocaulon for the first time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Here we present 'APCalign', an R package and accompanying browser-sourced application to align and update scientific names for Australian vascular plants to the most likely currently accepted name in the Australian Plant Census (APC) or a name in the Australian Plant Names Index (APNI). Scientific names are the label assigned to unique taxon concepts by the scientific community, but this common terminology is most useful if a taxon concept is consistently referred to by the same name. These links can be broken because of either spelling mistakes or taxonomic changes. Automated tools are required to resolve taxon lists, aligning and updating long lists of possibly erroneous scientific names to the most likely currently accepted names. It is essential that tools specific to the APC/APNI be developed, because these lists specify an endorsed national-level nomenclature used in government legislation and include the uniquely Australian concept of phrase names, absent in global taxonomic datasets. To align input names to names within the APC or APNI, 'APCalign' works progressively through a sequence of checks that combine different permutations of the input name, exact versus fuzzy matches, matches that consider the entire name input versus a subset of words, and character strings that indicate a name can be resolved only to a genus or family. The aligned names are then, when possible, updated to a currently accepted taxon concept within the APC. This package should facilitate all research outputs that require diverse scientific name lists to be merged or outdated lists to be updated. To facilitate communication, research projects, biodiversity assessments and nurseries across Australia should use the scientific names accepted by the Australian Plant Census (APC), Australia's national taxonomic standard for vascular plants. Here we present 'APCalign', an R package and browser-sourced application to efficiently align and update lists of scientific names for Australian vascular plants to the most likely currently accepted name. This package will be useful for all research outputs that require diverse scientific name lists to be updated. Image by Elizabeth Wenk. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new species of Eriotheca (Bombacoideae, Malvaceae) from montane wet forests in the Atlantic Forest of Bahia, northeastern Brazil, is described and illustrated. It is known from only three populations situated between 750 m and 850 m in elevation on mountain summits and categorized as Endangered (EN) based on IUCN criteria. Eriotheca paganuccii is distinct from all congeners by the combination of coriaceous to strongly coriaceous leaves and remarkable few-seeded, globose to subglobose woody capsules that contain scanty kapok and the largest seeds known in the genus to date. The affinities of E. paganuccii to morphologically similar species as well as the importance of obtaining phenologically complete collections are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Linaria bimaculata comb. et stat. nov., from the overlooked Central Algarve plant endemism centre, is here lectotypified and redescribed as a full species based on Linaria viscosa var. bimaculata, which was historically misidentified under allopatric L. spartea and L. viscosa. Traditional herbarium taxonomy and citizen science observations were combined to document the geographical range of the four species of Linaria subsect. Versicolores in the Algarve and amend an identification key for the Iberian clade of this subsection. Geographical patterns and morphological similarity suggest a sister relationship between L. bimaculata and L. algarviana, unveiling a new possible example of parallel speciation linked to a purple to yellow shift in corolla colour. Besides the yellow flowers, L. bimaculata differs from L. algarviana in the more elongate fertile stems and the invariably erect-patent corolla tube. It is assessed as Vulnerable (VU) according to the IUCN Categories and Criteria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A taxonomic revision of the Pultenaea setulosa species complex (Fabaceae, tribe Mirbelieae) is presented. Prior to this study, P. setulosa Benth. was broadly circumscribed as a single, morphologically variable species. Here, we present evidence supporting the recognition of 18 species, 14 of which are new to science. Pultenaea setulosa is recircumscribed as a morphologically uniform taxon endemic to the Marlborough region in south-east Queensland. We reinstate Pultenaea boormanii H.B.Will., Pultenaea campbellii Maiden & Betche and Pultenaea lapidosa Corrick from synonymy of P. setulosa and describe an additional 14 new species: Pultenaea acanthocalyx R.L.Barrett & Clugston, Pultenaea corrickiae R.L.Barrett, Orme & Clugston, Pultenaea estelleae R.L.Barrett & Clugston, Pultenaea farmeriana R.L.Barrett, Orme & P.H.Weston, Pultenaea hoskingii R.L.Barrett & Clugston, Pultenaea imminuta R.L.Barrett & S.F.McCune, Pultenaea murrayi R.L.Barrett, Pultenaea palssoniae R.L.Barrett & Clugston, Pultenaea praetermissa R.L.Barrett & Albr., Pultenaea purdieae R.L.Barrett & Clugston, Pultenaea renneri R.L.Barrett & Clugston, Pultenaea venusta R.L.Barrett & Orme, Pultenaea westonii R.L.Barrett & Clugston and Pultenaea woolcockiorum R.L.Barrett & Clugston. Sixteen of these species are endemic to New South Wales, one to Queensland and one to Victoria. All taxa are described and illustrated, and habitats and conservation status are discussed. Two additional related species, Pultenaea procumbens A.Cunn. and P. setigera A.Cunn. ex Benth. are recircumscribed. Pultenaea setigera is reinstated here, known from the type collection made in 1822 and is possibly extinct. Lectotypes are selected for the names Pultenaea boormanii, P. campbellii, P. procumbens, P. setigera and P. setulosa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Persea is a genus of Lauraceae with about 101 accepted species from the Americas and another two from the Macaronesian Islands and the Azores. The New World species occur in subtropical to tropical regions from sea level to ca. 4000 m. Recent field work in southeastern Brazil, as well as the study of 1432 collections of Brazilian Persea, revealed a new species that we describe here as Persea quarciticola. The new species belongs to Persea subg. Eriodaphne. It is restricted to the 'morros de sal' (mountains of quartz) of Vargem Alta, Espírito Santo, between 600 and 800 m. We provide a complete description of the new species, including illustrations, a distribution map, and discussion on its putative relationships within the genus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Symbiotic nitrogen (N) fixation (SNF), replenishing bioavailable N for terrestrial ecosystems, exerts decisive roles in N cycling and gross primary production. Nevertheless, it remains unclear what determines the variability of SNF rate, which retards the accurate prediction for global N fixation in earth system models. This study synthesized 1230 isotopic observations to elucidate the governing factors underlying the variability of SNF rate. The SNF rates varied significantly from 3.69 to 12.54 g N m−2 year−1 across host plant taxa. The traits of host plant (e.g. biomass characteristics and taxa) far outweighed soil properties and climatic factors in explaining the variations of SNF rate, accounting for 79.0% of total relative importance. Furthermore, annual SNF yield contributed to more than half of N uptake for host plants, which was consistent across different ecosystem types. This study highlights that the biotic factors, especially host plant traits (e.g. biomass characteristics and taxa), play overriding roles in determining SNF rate compared with soil properties. The suite of parameters for SNF lends support to improve N fixation module in earth system models that can provide more confidence in predicting bioavailable N changes in terrestrial ecosystems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper provides an identification key and an annotated list of all six species of the genus Ridsdalea J.T.Pereira & K.M.Wong (Rubiaceae, Gardenieae) recorded in the flora of Vietnam, along with data on their valid names, synonyms, types, and distribution. A new species, R. backanensis, discovered in the limestone area of Bac Kan Province (northern Vietnam), is described and illustrated. Detailed data on its characters, ecology, distribution, phenology, preliminary IUCN conservation status, and taxonomical notes are given. The newly discovered species is potentially interesting for cultivation as an ornamental tree that may be effectively used in garden and urban green architecture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cryptic species continue to intrigue taxonomists over time and hamper biodiversity knowledge. An example of what would be considered a cryptic species is Daustinia montana (Convolvulaceae). Its wide leaf morphology plasticity has led to multiple interpretations and contrasting classifications: from a monotypic to a six-taxa hypothesis. For this work, we tested six taxonomic hypotheses, including an explicit test of a monotypic approach, under a robust statistical analysis, using univariate and multivariate methods. Besides that, we performed a niche analysis to verify the niche occupation of the populations recognized here as possible species. Forty-eight micro and macromorphological characters (qualitative and quantitative) from individuals of 16 populations of D. montana were evaluated. The taxonomic hypothesis that recognizes eight distinct species has the highest support as they also have non-overlapping niches. We conclude that the number of species in Daustinia may be greater than its current circumscription. We also highlight the importance of an integrative systematic approach in the study of biodiversity. This research represents a first step in the specific delimitations of the genus and can also serve as a model to study taxa with wide morphological variability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Jurinea stenocarpa, is described as a new species based on morphological characters. This species is a mountainous Irano‐Turanian element distributed in the north‐west of Iran, –the Azarbaijan region. Specimens of this species were collected from Aqdagh (type location) and Talesh Mountains in Ardabil Province, Pir‐Saqqa Mountain in Eastern Azarbaijan Province. The taxonomic position of the new species is assessed using sequence data from the nuclear ribosomal ITS region, and the findings are discussed based on a morphological background as well. The new species is morphologically close to its sympatric species, J. heterophylla by having linear‐lanceolate simple and more or less entire leaves, but differs mostly in the form of inflorescence and shape and status of phyllaries. The new species also has similarities to its allopatric species J. monocephala, mainly by having semi‐globose involucre and scapose stems, but differs in plant indumentum, the shape of phyllaries and features of achenes and size of pappus rays. Description, photos and a distribution map for the new species and closely related species are presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During our floristic expedition in South Vietnam, a wild taxon Zingiber densissimum (sect. Cryptanthium) was recognized as a newly recorded species for the flora of Vietnam. The taxonomic treatment with a description is provided, along with photographs, distribution, ecology, a conservation assessment, and morphological comparison with its alliance species. It is similar to Zingiber orbiculatum and Zingiber mioga in having whitish flowers and bright yellow anthers but differs in many aspects of vegetative and reproductive characteristics. Moreover, a taxonomic key for all species of sect. Cryptanthium in Vietnam is included. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Atlantic forest is one of the world's major tropical biomes due to its rich biodiversity. Its vast diversity of plant species poses challenges in floristic surveys. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) enables rapid and residue-free data collection, providing diverse applications in organic sample analysis. FTIR spectra quality depends on the sample preparation methodology. However, no research on FTIR spectroscopy methodology for taxonomy has been conducted with tropical tree species. Hence, this study addresses the sample preparation influence on FTIR spectra for the taxonomic classification of 12 tree species collected in the Serra do Mar State Park (PESM) - Cunha Nucleus – São Paulo State, Brazil. Spectra were obtained from intact fresh (FL), intact dried (DL), and heat-dried ground (GL) leaves. The spectra were evaluated through chemometrics using Principal Component Analysis (PCA), Hierarchical Cluster Analysis (HCA), and Linear Discriminant Analysis (LDA) with validation by LDA-PCA. The results demonstrate that sample preparation directly influences tropical species FTIR spectra categorization capability. The best taxonomic classification result for all techniques, validated by LDA-PCA, was obtained from GL. FTIR spectra evaluation through PCA, HCA, and LDA allow for the observation of phylogenetic relationships among the species. FTIR spectroscopy proves to be a viable technique for taxonomic evaluation of tree species in floristic exploration of tropical biomes which can complement traditional tools used for taxonomic studies.

The new species of the genus Lysionotus (Gesneriaceae), named L. namchoomii, discovered in Pakke-Kessang District of Arunachal Pradesh, India, is described and illustrated here. It differs from morphologically similar L. ziroensis mainly in glabrous vegetative organs, denticulate-crenulate leaf blade, deltoid inflorescence bracts, free spatulate glabrous calyx lobes, and corolla glabrous inside. This species is confined to two different locations, with a small population comprising a total of 60–100 individuals. The conservation status of this new species is provisionally assessed here as Critically Endangered, CR: B1a, b(iiii, v) + 2a, b(i-iii,v) following the IUCN Red List Categories and Criteria.

Pemphis acidula is a wild plant in rocky or sandy coastal areas and mangrove ecosystems. Different geographic characteristics may affect plant adaptability and have an impact on the emergence of various genotypes. This study was performed to reveal the phenetic relationship and genetic variation of P. acidula in 3 different areas in Tomini Bay, Gorontalo Province, Indonesia. We took 3 samples from each location and analysed them using 14 morphological characters and molecular approaches based on ISSR markers and ITS gene. The results showed that P. acidula on Olele had bigger sizes in some morphological features compared to the plants in other study areas. The phenetic analysis showed that P. acidula at Biluhu and Dulanga were more closely related, although P. acidula at the 3 locations had 100% similarity. Genetic variation analysis showed the highest genetic similarity based on ISSR markers was found in Dulanga and Biluhu samples (76.8%). Phylogenetic based on ITS gene revealed that Olele samples were in the same clade with P. acidula accession from GenBank (genetic distance 0-0.19%), while Biluhu samples were a sister group (genetic distance 24.97-25.03%) even though their percentage identity corresponds to P. acidula (81.34%). Plant adaptation to different habitat conditions may affect the genetic diversity of P. acidula.

Collecting expeditions carried out in the Zamboanga Peninsula of western Mindanao (Philippines) led to the rediscovery of Thottea philippinensis, previously known only by a single collection made 93 years ago. Here we provide an extended description, comments on the affinities among closely related species, an updated geographical distribution, habitat information, conservation assessment, and the first‐ever published photos of living T. philippinensis in the wild. Additionally, the occurrence of T. tomentosa in the Philippine archipelago is confirmed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new plant species, Camellia vanlangensis, belonging to the Archecamellia section is described from Thanh Hoa Province, northern Vietnam. It grows up to 8 m tall and has big golden yellow flowers up to 8 cm wide. The flower is a solitary, subterminal, cup-shaped, with glabrous pedicel, 5-6 persistent bracteoles, 9-10 persistent orange-green sepals, and 10-11 petals. It has 130-150 stamens in 5 whorls, glabrous 3-5-loculed ovary, 3-5 distinct styles, 5-rigged and apex sunken of capsule. A detailed comparison between new species and two close related species, C. impressinervis and C. calcicola, is provided. Preliminary IUCN conservation status of this species is assigned as Critically Endangered (CR). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new species, Seseli kurdistanicum Lyskov and Fırat (Apiaceae), is described from the Van Province, eastern Turkey. Molecular phylogenetic analysis of nrITS/ETS recognized the new species as closely related to Seseli leptocladum from western Armenia. Morphologically, these two species are also closely related. However, S. kurdistanicum differs from S. leptocladum in the petiole length (absent or very short about 0.5 cm versus 3–5 cm), shape of radical leaves (ovate versus oblong), umbel diameter (up to 11 cm with ascending rays versus 2–3 cm with erect rays), number of rays (4–10, usually 6–7 versus 1–6, usually 2–4), and ray length (up to 7 cm, usually 3–5 versus up to 3 cm). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: A new and unusual spiral ginger (Zingiberales: Costaceae) from Bach Ma National Park, Thua Thien Hue province, central Vietnam is described. Cheilocostus phuongii differs from all known terminally flowering species of Cheilocostus by its completely glabrous stems and leaves, bright yellow flowers, and fruits with only a few large non-angular seeds. A detailed description, colour plates, notes on recognition, distribution, habitat, phenology, etymology and morphological affinities with other congeners are given. The key to Cheilocostus in Vietnam is updated. The species is provisionally assessed as Endangered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gene trees and species trees: Molecular systematics as one-character taxonomy. Comprehensive taxon sampling, congruent data, gene trees, incomplete lineage sorting, plant molecular systematics, plant taxonomy, species trees, phylogenomic analysis Keywords: comprehensive taxon sampling; congruent data; gene trees; incomplete lineage sorting; phylogenomic analysis; plant molecular systematics; plant taxonomy; species trees EN comprehensive taxon sampling congruent data gene trees incomplete lineage sorting phylogenomic analysis plant molecular systematics plant taxonomy species trees 1 4 4 08/31/23 20230801 NES 230801 In the process of compiling a flora for Montana (Lesica, [21], [21]), we came to realize that many published nomenclatural changes are only weakly supported by the data presented which has often been based on recent findings in the field of molecular evolution. Taxonomists and non-taxonomic botanists should also realize that another source of discordance between gene trees and species trees is transfer of mitochondria or chloroplasts across species boundaries. [Extracted from the article]

Amorphophallus sakonnakhonensis Chatan & Promprom, a new species from northeastern Thailand, is described and illustrated. The new species is most similar to A. harmandii Engl. & Gehrm. and A. linearis Gagnep., but it is distinguished by the combination of characters as follows: clear differences with A. harmandii are shorter style; disc-like, slightly smooth surface, concave centre, ca. 0.2 × 0.1 mm stigma; slightly cylindrical, slightly narrower upper part of staminate flower zone; slightly cylindrical to elongate-fusiform, erect or slightly erect, creamy white appendix. The clearly distinct morphology with A. linearis are disc-like, slightly smooth surface, concave centre, ca. 0.2 × 0.1 mm stigma; elliptic or obovate leaflet; 1–3 cm long, creamy white appendix. The preliminary conservation status was assessed, and the distinct characteristics of similar species were discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acanthaceae is an eurypalinous and pollen morphology has been used in species delimitation and as a support to new taxa recognition. The aim of the present study is to provide new pollen descriptions for the Brazilian species of Dyschoriste (7 spp.) and Hygrophila (4 spp.). We analysed the pollen under light and scanning electronic microscopy. Pollen grains of D. erythrorhiza, D. eulinae, D. glandulifera, D. vinacea, H. acutangula, and H. paraibana are described here for the first time. Dyschoriste species has pollen grains medium to large, isopolar, prolate spheroidal, subprolate to prolate, circular, subcircular, and subtriangular amb, 3-colporate and 13–20-pseudocolpate and the exine is psilate-microechinate to perforate-microechinate. Hygrophila species has pollen grains small to medium, isopolar, oblate spheroidal, subcircular to subquadrangular amb, 4-colporate and 15–21-pseudocolpate and exine is perforate-reticulate. Palynological characters of high taxonomic relevance were: pollen size; pollen shape; length of colpi; endoaperture shape; sexine and nexine thickness; sexine ornamentation; number of pseudocolpi. From our results, a new combination is proposed, D. glandulifera, based on both pollen and macro morphology traits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Himalayan species Ligularia kingiana (W. W. Sm.) Hand.-Mazz., which for a long time was considered as endemic to the state of Sikkim (India), was first found during field work in the state of Nagaland, almost 700 km from the type locality. The study of herbarium materials and literature revealed that this rare species also occurs in eastern Nepal (Solukhumbu District) and northern Myanmar (Kachin State). For Nepal, L. kingiana is reported for the first time.

Syzygium is a large genus (1200–1500 species) of Old World tropical trees, currently divided into five subgenera containing widely different numbers of species. Syzygium subgenus Perikion was defined by the presence of fibre bundles in the hypanthium wall, although until now this feature has not been investigated or images published. Furthermore, discovery of fibre bundles in certain species outside Syzygium subgenus Perikion calls for reassessment of the subgenus. In this paper, a morphological analysis is presented for all species previously associated with Syzygium subgenus Perikion or known to have fibre bundles. Results indicate the need for description of a new subgenus, Syzygium subgenus Oborapi , characterized by a distinctly goblet-shaped calyx, presence of fibre bundles in the hypanthium/mesocarp, prominent black lenticels on the abaxial leaf surface, ascending ovule orientation and species diversity centred on the Sunda Shelf. Fibre bundles are photographed and documented for the first time from a range of species and at different magnifications. A preliminary list of species is presented for Syzygium subgenus Perikion and Syzygium subgenus Oborapi , with recommendations for further investigation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two new dwarf species of Diplacrum are described from tropical Australia: Diplacrum blakei K.L.Wilson & R.L.Barrett and D. latzii K.L.Wilson & R.L.Barrett. Diplacrum is the only genus in Cyperaceae tribe Bisboeckelereae occurring in Australia. Historically, it has been confused with Scleria (Tribe Sclerieae). Descriptions are provided for all four Australian species, as well as a generic description and a key to Australian and three additional Malesian and South-East Asian species. Brief comments are made about the species in Africa, the tropical Americas and India. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background The genus Daucus (Apiaceae) comprises about 40 wild species and the cultivated carrot, a crop of great economic and nutritional importance. The rich genetic diversity of wild Daucus species makes them a valuable gene pool for carrot improvement breeding programs. Therefore, it is essential to have good knowledge of the genome structure and relationships among wild Daucus species. To broaden such knowledge, in this research, the nuclear DNA content for 14 Daucus accessions and four closely related species was estimated by flow cytometry and their pollen morphology was analyzed by light and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Results The flow cytometric analysis showed a 3.2-fold variation in the mean 2C values among Daucus taxa, ranging from 0.999 (D. carota subsp. sativus) to 3.228 pg (D. littoralis). Among the outgroup species, the mean 2C values were 1.775–2.882 pg. The pollen grains of Daucus were tricolporate, mainly prolate or perprolate (rarely) in shape, and mainly medium or small (rarely) in size (21.19–40.38 µm), whereas the outgroup species had tricolporate, perprolate-shaped, and medium-sized (26.01–49.86 µm) pollen grains. In the studied taxa, SEM analysis revealed that exine ornamentation was striate, rugulate, perforate, or the ornamentation pattern was mixed. At the time of shedding, all pollen grains were three-celled, as evidenced by DAPI staining. We also found high positive correlations between the length of the polar axis (P) and the length of the equatorial diameter (E) of pollen grains, as well as between P and P/E. However, when comparing cytogenetic information with palynological data, no significant correlations were observed. Conclusions This study complements the information on the nuclear DNA content in Daucus and provides comprehensive knowledge of the pollen morphology of its taxa. These findings may be important in elucidating the taxonomic relationships among Daucus species and can help in the correct identification of gene bank accessions. In a broader view, they could also be meaningful for the interpretation of evolutionary trends in the genus.

Plant element stoichiometry and stoichiometric flexibility strongly regulate ecosystem responses to global change. Here, we tested three potential mechanistic drivers (climate, soil nutrients, and plant taxonomy) of both using paired foliar and soil nutrient data from terrestrial forested National Ecological Observatory Network sites across the USA. We found that broad patterns of foliar nitrogen (N) and foliar phosphorus (P) are explained by different mechanisms. Plant taxonomy was an important control over all foliar nutrient stoichiometries and concentrations, especially foliar N, which was dominantly related to taxonomy and did not vary across climate or soil gradients. Despite a lack of site‐level correlations between N and environment variables, foliar N exhibited intraspecific flexibility, with numerous species‐specific correlations between foliar N and various environmental factors, demonstrating the variable spatial and temporal scales on which foliar chemistry and stoichiometric flexibility can manifest. In addition to plant taxonomy, foliar P and N:P ratios were also linked to soil nutrient status (extractable P) and climate, especially actual evapotranspiration rates. Our findings highlight the myriad factors that influence foliar chemistry and show that broad patterns cannot be explained by a single consistent mechanism. Furthermore, differing controls over foliar N versus P suggests that each may be sensitive to global change drivers on distinct spatial and temporal scales, potentially resulting in altered ecosystem N:P ratios that have implications for processes ranging from productivity to carbon sequestration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Raphiocarpus taygiangensis, a new species of Gesneriaceae family discovered in Tay Giang District, Quang Nam Province, Central Vietnam, is here described and illustrated. The new species is diagnosed by the combination of its stem up to 2 m long, sericeous hairs on young stem, leaf petiole and adaxial mid-vein, sparsely and minutely serrate leaf margin, axillary inflorescence spreading along stem, sparsely long glandtipped hairs on peduncle, pedicel, calyx, outside corolla and pistil, calyx 5-disparted from base, purplish white flower with purple stripes inside corolla tube, and dish-shaped stigma formed by 2 semi-orbicular lobes horizontally expanding. Distinct features of the new species and its morphologically closest congener, Rhaphiocarpus axillaris, are compared and discussed. The conservation status of the described species is estimated as Vulnerable (VU D2) according to the IUCN Red List Criteria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The sedge-moss vegetation of the moderately to low calcium-rich slightly acidic fens of the Caricion fuscae alliance depends on a very specific combination of ecological and climatic conditions to thrive. Until recently, the classification of this vegetation group was complicated by its rarity on the southern edges of its range in Europe. As part of a larger database of phytocenological relevés carried out in Mt. Luboten, we came across an interesting group of 15 relevés on fen vegetation sites. We were curious to know if this plant community was a previously known association or if it might represent something new within this alliance. We compiled a separate dataset at JUICE that includes four plant communities from this alliance, along with our 15 original releves. The classification was based on modified TWINSPAN and beta-flexible clustering as a numerical classification method, with OPTIMCLASS determining the appropriate number of clusters. Five associations were clearly delineated, with the four associations taken from the literature sources clearly grouped individually and a new, fifth association appearing as separate, with completely unique characteristics. This new association: Blysmo compressi-Eriophoretum latifoliae occurs at elevations of ~ 1650 m a.s.l. on NE and NW slopes of the mountain. With this work we offer the description of a new high-mountain fen association. These associations may play an important syntaxonomic role as more Balkan data become available on this alliance. The sedge-moss and fen vegetation in the Balkans is particularly rare and characterised by a very diverse and specific vegetation, so it rightly deserves more attention from vegetation scientists and conservation authorities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aiouea Aubl. is a genus of the Lauraceae family restricted to the Neotropics. Most species occur in tropical and mountainous forests of Central America, the Andes, and Brazil, from sea level to 2800 m. Recent field investigations in southeastern Brazil, as well as my study of 237 herbarium specimens, revealed a new species that I describe here as Aiouea albopunctata Brotto. The new species is mainly characterized by its whitish-punctuated fruits – hence the name – and is restricted to the mountains of eastern Brazil at altitudes between 600 and 1700 m. I provide a complete description of the new species, including illustrations, a distribution map, and key features distinguishing it from other species in the Atlantic Rain Forest. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Garcinia siripatanadilokii Ngerns., Meeprom, Boonth., Chamch. & Sinbumr. (Clusiaceae), a new species discovered from tropical lowland evergreen rain forest, Peninsular Thailand, is described. A detailed morphological description and illustrations of the species are provided, along with information on recognition, distribution, specimens examined, habitat, conservation assessment, phenology, etymology, vernacular name and uses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The morphological features of plants, which were the basis of taxonomic solutions in the past, are now sometimes less appreciated due to the intensive development of genetic methods. The present review looks at the results of the research on the taxonomy of plants carried out by the team led by A. Boratyński. The team characterized the taxonomic and geographical differentiation of some species of the genera Abies , Juniperus , Pinus , Cupressus , Cedrus , as well as several others. Many of these studies were carried out in the Mediterranean area due to its importance for biodiversity. The results allowed unravelling taxonomic ambiguities, emphasizing the importance of geographic barriers in shaping variability, e.g., the Strait of Gibraltar or the Aegean Sea, and highlighting the role of mountain ranges as refuges, e.g., the Taurus and Anti-Taurus Mountains. All of the results obtained with biometrics were confirmed by genetic methods by different authors. Detailed research allowed the publication of a new name, Juniperus thurifera subsp. africana (Maire) Romo & Boratyński, stat. nov., and restoration of species status for the dubious taxon Juniperus canariensis . The review shows that relying on the research of a large number of correctly sampled populations and correctly selected differentiated characteristics of plants allows the generation of reliable results.

Hydrangea marunoi Tagane & S. Fujii, from the Kimotsuki Mountains in the Ohsumi Peninsula, southern Japan, is described and illustrated. It is morphologically similar to H. alternifolia in having three-petaloid calyx lobes in marginal flowers, but is distinguished by the larger stamen number, and longer styles and seeds. Multiplex ISSR genotyping by sequencing (MIG-seq) demonstrated that the new species is monophyletic and closely related to H. amamiohsimensis and H. moellendorffii rather than H. alternifolia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acilepis nakhonphanomensis Chatan & Promprom, a new species in the Sunflower family (Asteraceae) from northeastern Thailand, is described and illustrated. It mainly differs from other previously known similar Acilepis species by the receptacle, leaf blade margin, involucre, floret, corolla tube, anther, style, and achene. Colour illustrations, line drawings, distribution map, and morphological comparisons with its allied species are provided. The conservation status of the new species was also assessed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cryptocoryne paglaterasiana, a new endemic species discovered by two citizen scientists in Zamboanga del Norte, Western Mindanao, Philippines is herein described and illustrated. A detailed description, colour plates, phenology, distribution, provisional conservation status and a list of Cryptocoryne species in the Philippines are presented below. With this discovery, the Philippines now holds a total number of seven Cryptocoryne species and except for one they are endemic, rare and threatened. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A species new to science, Alocasia epilithica Serebryanyi, K.Z.Hein & Naive discovered in Tanintharyi Region, Myanmar, is herein described and illustrated. This new species was also found to occur in the provinces of Nakhon Si Thammarat and Surat Thani of Peninsular Thailand. Detailed description, color plates, discussion of similar taxa, phenology, distribution map and a preliminary conservation status assessment are provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Amyris pacis, a new species from the Magdalena River Valley in Colombia, is described and illustrated, including comments about its geographical distribution, habitat, phenology, conservation status and taxonomic affinities. The new species appears to be closely related to A. trimera due to its unifoliolate leaves and trimerous flowers, but differs from it by its longer leaflet blades with the base rounded to subtruncate, or occasionally subcordate (vs. cuneate), and secondary veins slightly ascending (vs. more strongly ascending). Being a threatened and endemic species, and one of the few species with trimerous flowers, it should be included in further studies to determine appropriate conservation plans and to improve knowledge about the morphology of species with trimerous flowers in Neotropical Rutaceae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]