DOI: 10.5091/plecevo.172526

Authors: Murielle Simo-Droissart, Olivier Lachenaud, Moses Libalah, Bonaventure Sonké

Abstract: Background and aims – Riverine habitats along the Sanaga River in Cameroon were until recently little-explored by botanists, although they are facing increasing threats, notably from the construction of hydroelectric dams. Recent botanical inventories in the area have led to the discovery of several taxonomical novelties, including a new species of Phragmanthera (Loranthaceae) that is described here. Material and methods – This paper is based on field studies and examination of herbarium collections of the new species and its relatives. Classic practices of herbarium taxonomy have been applied. The conservation status of the new species is assessed following the IUCN Red List Categories and Criteria. Key results – Phragmanthera bidaultii sp. nov. is identified by its non-septate anthers (a unique character in the genus), by the patent to reflexed corolla lobes with the apex thickened into a conical appendage, and by its relatively narrow leaves, initially with sparse rufous barbellate hairs but soon becoming glabrescent on both sides. It has a very restricted distribution along the Sanaga River in Cameroon, where it grows in riparian forest, and it is assessed as Endangered (EN).

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.5091/plecevo.127900

Authors: Jhon S. Murillo-Serna, Isabel Carmona-Gallego, Francisco J. Roldán, Julio A. Sierra-Giraldo, Fernando Alzate-Guarín

Abstract: Background and aims – Ongoing studies on Colombian mistletoes revealed an undescribed species of Maracanthus (Loranthaceae) endemic to the Colombian Eastern Cordillera (Cordillera Oriental). This species is described and illustrated here, and a checklist of the species accepted in Maracanthus is also provided, including a taxonomic key, references to the known iconography of the genus, and taxonomic and geographic comments. Material and methods – This study is based on a literature review according to the International Code of Nomenclature for Algae, Fungi, and Plants, examination of herbarium specimens using physical specimens and digital images, and morphological studies based on samples from dried and rehydrated specimens. Key results – A detailed morphological analysis revealed that the new species is part of the little-known genus Maracanthus. The dichotomous key, as well as the taxonomic and geographic notes, allow users to recognise the five known species in this genus, showing that they occur in restricted distribution areas.

HTML

XML

PDF