bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Towards a subordinal classification of the Pezizales (Ascomycota): phylogenetic analyses of SSU rDNA sequences.
Authors: Landvik Sara , Egger Keith N. , Schumacher Trond
Published: March 2008

Phylogenetic analyses of partial SSU rDNA sequences from representatives of 36 pezizales associated genera are presented, including new sequences from 28 species: Aleuria aurantiaca, Ascodesmis sphaerospora, Boudiera acanthospora, Caloscypha fulgens, Cheilymenia stercorea, Cookeina sulcipes, Desmazierella acicola, Geopyxis carbonaria, Hydnotrya tulasnei, Iodophanus carneus, Microstoma protracta, Otidea leporina, Paurocotylis pila, Peziza succosa and P vesiculosa (the type species of the family Pezizaceae and the order Pezizales), Pyronema domesticum, Pulvinula archeri, Saccobolus sp., Sarcoscypha austriaca, Sarcosoma globosum, Sarcosphaera coronaria, Scutellinia scutellata and S. torrentis, Sphaerosporella brunnea, Tarzetta catinus, Thelebolus crustaceus, Trichophaea hybrida, Trichophaeopsis bicuspis, and Wilcoxina mikolae. Two taxon and character matrices were subjected to maximum parsimony, maximum likelihood, and neighbor‐joining analyses. The first matrix included 28 taxa and a full character set of 1600 bp, and the second matrix 37 taxa and a restricted set of 1053 characters. The analyses using the restricted character set generally yielded the same topology as the full character set but the resolution was reduced. Three main evolutionary lineages were detected within the order: (1) Pezizaceae and Ascobolaceae, (2) Helvellaceae, Morchellaceae, Tuberaceae, and Caloscypha (Otideaceae), and (3) Sarcoscyphaceae, Sarcosomataceae, Ascodes‐midaceae, Glaziellaceae, Otideaceae and Pyronemataceae. The inferred subordinal grouping is compared to extant classification schemes of the Pezizales. Sarcosomataceae and Sarcoscyphaceae are recognized as separate monophyletic groups. The analyses did not support recognition of Pyronemataceae, Ascodesmida‐ceae, and Glaziellaceae as separate from the Otideaceae. Thelebolus (Thelebolaceae) clusters with extra‐pezizalean genera and does not belong to the order.
A taxonomic revision of the genus Hystrix (Triticeae, Poaceae)
Authors: Baden Claw , Frederiksen Signe , Seberg Ole
Published: March 2008

The perennial genus Hystrix (Triticeae) is revised. The genus has been treated very differently by contemporary authors, but here documentation is presented of diagnostic characteristics distinguishing it from genera with which it has been confused. Six species, one divided into three subspecies, are recognized: H. patula, H. californicus, H. duthiei ssp. duthiei, H. duthiei ssp. longearistata, H. duthiei ssp. japonica, H. komarovii, H. coreana, and H. sibirica. A key, descriptions, nomenclature, variation pattern, distribution maps, and cytogenetic data are presented.
A revision of the genus Dopatrium (Scrophulariaceae‐Gratioloideae)
Authors: Fischer Eberhard
Published: March 2008

The genus Dopatrium is revised and 14 species are recognized. The distribution and ecology of each species is described and illustrations and distribution maps are provided. The new combination Dopatrium tenerum is proposed.
Urocystis junci on Juncus balticus ‐ first find in Sweden but is it rare?
Authors: Hagner Åsa , Wennström Anders
Published: March 2008

The first find in Sweden of the smut Urocystis junci on Juncus balticus was made along the Bothnian sea coast. Of 18 surveyed populations of J. balticus along a 100 km coastal stretch, the smut fungus U. junci was found in ten. The distribution and the rarity of U. junci on J. balticus is discussed.
Nectary morphology in South West Asian Fritillaria (Liliaceae)
Authors: Khaniki Gholamreza Bakhshi , Persson Karin
Published: March 2008

Nectaries of 3 1 taxa belonging to 4 subgenera of the genus Fritillaria are investigated by scanning electron and light microscopy. In most of the material investigated nectary cells were smaller and narrower, and less irregular in shape than those of the neighbouring tissue of the tepals. Species belonging to subgenus Rhinopetalum clearly differ from all other species. Their nectaries are deeply impressed, and the slit‐like nectary orifice is bordered by two lobes, at least in the lower part densely hairy. In F. gibbosa, E karelinii and F. ariana, the flowers are ± zygomorphic as the nectary on the upper tepal is more deeply depressed than the others, and the nectary lobes are rather broad and fringed. In E stenanthera and E bucharica, nectaries are equally impressed in all tepals and the nectary orifice is bordered by narrow, unfringed ridges. The unique structure of nectaries in all species of this subgenus supports its separation from Fritillaria into a separate genus (Rhinopetalum Fisch. ex Alexand.). In the other subgenera, the nectaries are less impressed, often ± flattish, and usually linear to lanceolate or ovate, except in subgenus Petzlium where they are ± circular. One complex in subgenus Fritillaria is markedly distinguished from the rest of the subgenus: in the F. crassifolia group, the nectaries consist of a long and linear raised ridge with a median furrow. F. crassifolia ssp. poluninii is raised to specific level, E poluninii (fix) Bakhshi Khaniki & K. Persson, stat. nov. It is concluded that data on nectary morphology support the latest classification of the genus Fritillaria into subgenera and informal groups.
Allozyme differentiation between lowland and alpine populations of Pseudorchis albida s.lat. (Orchidaceae) in Sweden
Authors: Reinhammar Lars‐Gunnar , Hedren Mikael
Published: March 2008

Two taxa are usually recognized in Scandinavian Pseudorchis albida s.1. (Orchidaceae), the lowland to subalpine P. albida s.s., and the alpine P. straminea. We used allozymes to study the genetical differentiation within and among populations and taxa. Four populations of P. albida s.s. and two populations of P. straminea, all from Sweden, were included in the study. Eighteen loci of thirteen different enzyme systems were analyzed. Five loci were variable within, or between, the taxa. The taxa had different alleles at one of the five variable loci, whereas there was overlap at four loci. In all, 22 different alleles were found. Two of these alleles were confined to P. albida s.s., while four alleles were confined to P. straminea. In P. albida s.s., one locus out of 15 (6.7 %) was polymorphic. In P. straminea, three loci out of 18 (16.7 %) were polymorphic. In both taxa, the average number of alleles per polymorphic locus was 2.0 (each polymorphic locus had two alleles). Nei's genetic identity was 0.81 between taxa, and about 1 among populations of P. albida s.s., while the identity between the two populations of P. straminea was 0.98. Although the differentiation is small, present‐day distributions of taxa suggest that the divergence probably started before the Weichselian glaciation. The low within‐taxon and within‐population variation in Scandinavia may be due to ancient founder events. The association of P. albida s.s. with anthropogenic hay‐meadows and open woodland and the association of P. straminea with open mountain habitats suggest that taxa may have immigrated into Scandinavia at different times.
A re‐evaluation of species limits in Chaetobromus (Danthonieae: Poaceae)
Authors: Verboom G. Anthony , Linder H. Peter
Published: March 2008

Past changes in the taxonomy of Chaetobromus, a Cape grass with considerable fodder potential, reflect a history of instability due to inadequate past sampling and intergradation among taxa in most characters. This biosystematic study differs from earlier investigations by its much more intensive approach to sampling, taking into consideration inter‐ and intrapopulational variation in 75 anatomical, morphological and cytological characters, across a total of 169 samples. Both phenetic methods and population aggregation analysis revealed the existence of three major groups, approximating three formerly described taxa and reflecting divergent ecological strategies in Chaetobromus. However, continuity among groups in most characters and a lack of clear‐cut diagnostic field characters argues against their recognition at species level. Thus, Chaetobromus is here described as monotypic, the type species, C. involucratus, comprising three subspecies C. involucratus ssp. involucratus, C. involucratus ssp. sericeus and C. involucratus ssp. dregeanus.
Comparison of the Giemsa C‐banded karyotypes of Hystrix coreana and H. patula (Poaceae, Triticeae)
Authors: Baden Claus
Published: March 2008

The karyotypes of Hystrix coreana from eastern USSR and H. patula from USA were investigated by Giemsa C‐banding. Both species are outbreeders and have 2n = 4x = 28. The karyotype of two plants of H. coreana has 10 metacentric, 6 submetacentric, 8 heterobrachial and 4 SAT chromosomes; two plants differed by having 12 metacentric, 4 submetacentric, 8 heterobrachial and 4 SAT‐chromosomes, and 10 metacentric, 4 submetacentric, 9 heterobrachial and 5 SAT‐chromosomes, respectively. The C‐banding pattern had no or few inconspicuous intercalary bands, but conspicuous telomeric C‐bands in one or both arms giving a high content of heterochromatin (16.3–18.2%). The chromosome complement of one plant of H. patula had 8 metacentric, 6 submetacentric, 8 heterobrachial and 6 SAT‐chromosomes. The C‐banding pattern had between 1 and 4 intercalary or centromeric bands and conspicuous telomeric bands on one or both arms giving a high content of constitutive heterochromatin (16.4%).
Studies in taxonomy and developmental morphology in Chiodecton, Dichosporidium, Erythrodecton and the new genus Pulvinodecton (Arthoniales, lichenized Ascomycetes)
Authors: Henssen Aino , Thor Göran
Published: March 2008

Lichen material of three genera in Arthoniales from the Seychelles and Madagascar is revised. The new species Chiodecton papillosum is described from Madagascar, Dichosporidium brunnthalen is reported for the first time from Madagascar and the Seychelles, and a comprehensive description of Dichosporidium latisporum from the Seychelles is provided. The developmental morphology of the ascocarp is the same in Chiodecton, Dichosporidium and Erythrodecton: numerous pseudoangiocarpic apothecia arise individually in a stroma. On account of the deviating ascocarp ontogeny (stromata enclosing a large, proliferating apothecium), the new genus Pulvinodecton is established to include P. kurzii (Australia, Asia) and the new P. seychellensis (the Seychelles). As in Erythrodecton, the species in Pulvinodecton contain rhodocladonic acid. Pulvinodecton differs from Erythrodecton in its fusiform rather than biclavate ascospores, the development of the ascocarp, and the peculiar structure of the pycnidia havingdeeply divided cavity that opens by more than one ostiole.
A taxonomic revision of Secale (Triticeae, Poaceae)
Authors: Frederiksen Signe , Petersen Gitte
Published: March 2008

Several taxa have previously been recognized within Secale, but most of them are difficult or even impossible to distinguish morphologically. We recognize only three species: S. sylvestre, S. strictum, and S. cereale. Secale strictum has priority over S. montanum and has two subspecies, ssp. strictum and ssp. africanum, and two varieties within ssp. strictum, van strictum and var. ciliatoglume comb. nov. Secale cereale is also treated as having two subspecies. The cultivated taxa, marked by their tough rachises, are placed in ssp. cereale and the wild or weedy taxa that have more or less fragile rachis, in ssp. ancestrale. A complete synonymy is given for S. cereale, but typification has been omitted because, in many instances, type material does not exist or has been impossible to trace.
Allozyme variation in allotetraploid Saxifraga osloensis and its diploid progenitors
Authors: Nilsson Thomas , Jorde Per Erik
Published: March 2008

The Scandinavian endemic plant Saxifraga osloensis is believed to be an allotetraploid derived from the diploids S. adscendens and S. tridactylites. We used gel electrophoresis of enzymes to characterize the genetic constitution of the three species. The results support both the allotetraploid nature of S. osloensis and its ancestry from the two assumed parental species. The pattern of genetic differences among local populations of the three species indicates that S. osloensis has arisen from hybridization in the western part of its present distribution area, possibly at a single occasion.
Growth forms of annual vascular plants in central Europe
Authors: Krumbiegel Anselm
Published: March 2008

The investigation of the vegetative characters of annual species from central Europe showed a hitherto not regarded large spectrum of 20 growth forms within this plant group. These growth forms can be identified by means of a dichotomous key. This is also a new method to present growth form systems. Although several surveys about growth forms have been carried out, the proposed systems are either incomplete or not consequent in the use of their classifying criteria. Moreover, annual species have never been investigated systematically according to their growth forms. Important characters which were used to characterize growth forms are the occurrence of a rosette, the presence or absence of supporting tissue which causes aerostability or aerolability, succulence, growth direction (plagiotropous, orthotropous) and metamorphoses (for scrambling). According to the mode of surviving the resting period, annuals can be grouped into therophytes, hydrophytes, and hemicryptophytes. Whereas therophytic and hydrophytic annuals perennate the winter exclusively as generative diaspores (seeds, spores), hemicryptophytic species survive as seedlings or young plants.
New and rare species of Pezizales from calcareous woodlands in Denmark
Authors: Hansen K. , Sandal S. K. , Dissing H.
Published: March 2008

A survey of two Danish calcareous woodlands has resulted in the discovery of three new morphologically defined species of Pezizales: Peziza exogelatinosa sp. nov., Peziza retrocurvata sp. nov. and Marcelleina tuberculispora sp. nov.; Scabropezia scabrosa is described and reported as new to Europe. The combination Peziza polaripapulata comb. nov. is proposed and a detailed description of this taxon is given. A lectotype is designated for Peziza subcitrina and this binomial is discussed in relation to Peziza buxea. Peziza polaripapulata and P. subcitrina are new to the Nordic countries. Diagnoses and re‐descriptions are based on fresh material. Anatomical features based on ultra‐thin sections and SEM of the spores are presented, as well as ecological data on each of the species.
The genera Cyclonexis and Chrysostephanosphaera (Chrysophyceae)
Authors: Thompson Rufus H. , Wujek Daniel E.
Published: March 2008

Two species of Chrysophyceae, Cyclonexis annularis and Chrysostephanosphaera globulifera are discussed. Observations are presented which suggest a relationship between these two organisms, though it is added that lacking definite proof of a relationship, one should continue to consider the two as distinct taxa.
Typification of some Maloideae (Rosaceae) commonly cultivated in Norden
Authors: Christensen Knud Ib
Published: March 2008

In connection with a contribution of various genera of Maloideae (Rosaceae) to “Flora Nordica” lectotypes are designated for Crataegus sanguinea, C. punctata, Pyrus japonica (‵Chaenomeles japonica), Crataegus pyrifolia (‵Photinia pyrifolia), and Pyrus floribunda (‵Photinia floribunda). A lectotype and an epitype is selected for Mespilus flabellata (‵Crataegus flabellata).— Flora Nordica note no. 23.
Three new taxa of Bauhinia (Leguminosae) from China
Authors: Zhang Dianxiang , Chen Te‐chao
Published: March 2008

Two new species, Bauhinia calciphila and B. tianlinensis, and one new variety, B. erythropoda var. guangxiensis, are described from China.
Pollen morphology and its evolutionary significance in Hemerocallis (Liliaceae)
Authors: Xiong Zhi‐Ting , Chen Singchi , Hong Deyuan , Luo Yibo
Published: March 2008

Pollen morphology of 10 species of Hemerocallis was investigated with LM and SEM. In addition to pollen with reticulate sexine, a new verrucate sexine pattern is found in three Chinese endemic species, H. plicata, H. forrestii and H. nana. Between the two typical sexine patterns, there are transitional variants. Also, a new pollen shape, boat‐shaped‐elliptic, is observed exclusively in H. nana, besides‐oblong shape in other species. Phylogenetically, the common reticulate sexine pattern would be more primitive than the verrucate one. The typical reticulate sexine pattern would be basic, from which transitional variants would have derived and finally led to the typical verrucate pattern. Similarly, the common boat‐shaped‐oblong pollen would be more primitive than the ‐elliptic one, from which the latter would have derived during phylogenetic development.
Sesbania melanocaulis, sp. nov. (Leguminosae subfam. Papilionoideae) from SW. Ethiopia
Authors: Bidgood S. , Friis I.
Published: March 2008

Sesbania melanocaulis Bidgood & Friis sp. nov., is described from a mosaic of humid montane forest, forest margins, evergreen bushland and farmland in the Kefa and Welega Regions of SW. Ethiopia. The new species is a very distinctive small tree which is also widely used as a hedge plant throughout SW. Ethiopia. It belongs to subgen. Sesbania and resembles the widespread Sesbania sesban from which it differs most conspicuously in the dark purplish brown to almost black bark of the stems which are pilose to pubescent when young, the large pale tomentose stipules and the uniformly yellow flowers (dark dotted in S. sesban). The importance of SW. Ethiopia as a local centre of endemism has been confirmed by several recent studies, including preparatory work for the Flora of Ethiopia and Eritrea. The new species of Sesbania is only one of several leguminous trees which have been taken into domestication in Ethiopia.
Orchidantha inouei (Lowiaceae), a new species from Borneo
Authors: Nagamasu Hidetoshi , Sakai Shoko
Published: March 2008

A new species,Orchidantha inouei, is described from Sarawak. Two types of paracladium in the inflorescence are reported with a discussion on the inflorescence morphology of Lowiaceae.
Aosa sigmoidea, a new species of the genus Aosa (Loasaceae) from Brazil
Authors: Weigend Maximilian
Published: March 2008

A new species of Aosa (Loasaceae) is described from Minas Gerais in Brazil. A. sigmoidea clearly is a close relative of Aosa rostrata from the same area. The plant differs in being very much taller (2 m in A. sigmoidea in comparsion to 0.05–0.30 m in A. rostrata) and in having capsules with a clavate inferior portion which is 7–10 mm long while the inferior capsule portion in A. rostrata is hemisphaerical and only 1.5–2 mm in diameter.
Low isozyme diversity in Nordic and central European populations of Vicia pisiformis and V. dumetorum (Fabaceae)
Authors: Black‐Samuelsson Sanna , Lascoux Martin
Published: March 2008

Vicia pisiformis and V. dumetorum are closely related perennial species occurring in small, disjunct populations throughout Europe. In Sweden, they are classified as “vulnerable” and “care‐demanding”, respectively. They possess low variation in RAPD (Random Amplified Polymorphic DNA) markers but relatively high morphological variation. We estimated the amount and distribution of isozyme diversity within and among marginal (Sweden, Norway) and central (Czech Republic) populations. Vicia dumetorum was monomorphic for all 14 isozyme loci in the 22 populations investigated, whereas V. pisiformis had 2.94 % polymorphic loci and a mean of 1.02 alleles per loci. The differentiation (Fsr) of populations of V pisiformis were 0.848, but no clear geographical pattern was found. Preliminary results from artificial pollination experiments suggests self‐compatibility in V. dumetorum. The low overall polymorphism in Swedish and Czech localities in both species is explained in terms of common postglacial colonization events, recent anthropogenic activity, selfing and clonal reproduction. Finally, the implications of the data for conservation genetics is discussed.
Phenology and flower‐visiting entomofauna of six species of Lindera (Lauraceae) in Japan
Authors: Dupont Y. L. , Kato M.
Published: March 2008

In this study we investigated floral biology and flower‐visiting insect fauna in natural populations of six dioecious species of Lindera (Lauraceae) in Kyoto, Japan. Flowers of the Lindera species were similar in structure and floral attractants, and were visited by a wide range of insects. Although typical of generalist‐pollinated flowers, interspecific differences were found in flower‐visitor composition. All species of Lindera flowered early in the growing season, from February to May. However, peak flowering periods of different species of Lindera were staggered. Slight interspecific and intersexual divergence of flowering phenologies may reduce interspecific cross‐pollination. Results of this study suggest that interspecific segregation of pollinators was associated with seasonal divergence of phenological patterns, rather than character displacement of floral attractants.
Additions to the foliicolous lichen flora of the Ivory Coast and Guinea (Tropical West Africa)
Authors: Santesson Rolf , Lücking Robert
Published: March 2008

Four new foliicolous lichen species are described from the Ivory Coast (Tropical West Africa): Bapalmuia ivoriensis sp. nov., Chroodiscus africanus sp. nov., C. verrucosus sp. nov., and Lasioloma inexspectatum sp. nov. In addition, the new combination Calenia inconspicua comb, nova [Bas.: Heterothecium inconspicuum] is introduced. Lasioloma inexspectatum is the first species in the genus characterized by transversely septate ascospores and provides additional evidence for phylogenetic lines regarding the evolution of ascospore types in the lichen family Ectolechiaceae. In addition, 61 new records for the Ivory Coast and seven for Guinea are presented, increasing the number of species known in these areas to 161 and 124, respectively. Five species are new for tropical Africa, and six new for the Paleotropics. Further taxonomical and ecogeographical notes on the foliicolous lichen flora of tropical West Africa are provided.
Breeding relationships in the genus Brachypodium (Poaceae: Pooideae)
Authors: Khan Mir Ajab , Stace Clive A.
Published: March 2008

Results of hybridisation experiments involving five perennial European species of Brachypodium (B. sylvaticum, B. glaucovirens, B. pinnatum, B. phoenicoides and B. retusum), the annual B. distachyon, and the C. American perennial B. mexicanum are presented. Four of the European perennials are largely self‐incompatible, whereas B. sylvaticum, B. distachyon and B. mexicanum are highly self‐compatible. Despite their avowed ancient and relict status, the European species have mostly retained the ability to interbreed and produce viable F1 hybrids. The F1 hybrids obtained between the five European perennials all exhibit some degree of fertility. Hybrids between B. distachyon and at least some of the European perennials are vigorous and long‐lived, but show no evidence of fertility. No hybrids involving B. mexicanum could be raised. Success in raising hybrids, and the degree of fertility of such hybrids, partly agrees with closeness of taxonomic relationships as measured by morphological, anatomical, biochemical and molecular characteristics, but also with closeness in chromosome number irrespective of taxonomic affinity. Hence some interspecific hybrids are more easily produced and are more fertile than certain intraspecific hybrids involving parents of different chromosome number. All hybrids form good numbers of bivalents, but meiosis varies from almost regular in hybrids between European perennials with the same chromosome number to very irregular in hybrids between B. distachyon and any perennial species.
A new species of Orophea (Annonaceae) from Western Ghats, India
Authors: Sasidharan N.
Published: March 2008

Orophea sivarajanii, a new species from Western Ghats, India is described and illustrated.
Vegetation dynamics following trampling in rich fen at Sølendet, Central Norway; a 15 year study of recovery
Authors: Arnesen Trond
Published: March 2008

In Sølendet nature reserve in the upper boreal of central Norway, the effects of controlled trampling from 1977 to 1981 were observed in four rich fen localities. The vegetation recovery was monitored on permanent plots on 3–4 occasions during the period 1981–1995. During trampling the vegetation cover was reduced and bare peat increased, particularly in a wet fen expanse locality. Woody species and herbs disappeared or were considerably reduced in cover, while some graminoids (e.g. Carex spp. and Eriophorum angustifolium) and bryophytes (e.g. Campylium stellatum and Scorpidium cossonii), appeared to be quite tolerant. Equisetum palustre and Eriophorum angustifolium increased in cover on two tracks. Several bryophytes survived trampling, but Sphagnum warnstorfii was eradicated. Campylium stellatum and Tomentypnum nitens were able to increase after the decrease in S. warnstorfii. The recovery was dependent on which species were present at the outset and which species arrived early. Further development seemed to depend largely on the species' capacity for rapid increase in cover. Eventually, the more vulnerable dominants of the untrampled vegetation (e.g. Thalictrum alpinum, Trichophorum cespitosum and Sphagnum warnstorfii) increased in abundance. After 15 years the tracks still contained fewer species and had less vegetation cover than the surroundings.
Two novelties in Hedychium (Zingiberaceae) from Manipur, India
Authors: Dan M. , Kumar C. Sathish , Pushpangadan P.
Published: March 2008

Two new species of Hedychium viz. H. larsenii and H. sirirugsae are described and illustrated from Manipur, North East India.
Reproductive phenology in three Genisteae (Fabaceae) shrub species of the W Mediterranean Region
Authors: Rodríguez‐Riaño Tomás , Ortega‐Olivencia Ana , Devesa Juan A.
Published: March 2008

We studied the flower duration, the phenology of flowering and fruiting, and flower, fruit, and seed production in three Genisteae shrub species of the W Mediterranean Region: Cytisus multiflorus, C. striatus, and Retama sphaerocarpa. Flower duration was negatively correlated with temperature, and in the case of C. striatus it was also influenced by pollination. In Cytisus multiflorus, which flowers during winter in the population studied, two floral morphs were recognized differentiated by flower size, phenological pattern, and production of the reproductive organs: morph LF (large flowers) and morph SF (small flowers). The former is earlier in phenology but its reproductive success is less than the second since it not only produces significantly fewer flowers/plant, but also a smaller crop of fruit and seeds. The flowering of the LF morph lasted some three months and of the SF morph 11 weeks. The winter‐spring flowering C. striatus, with a four month duration of flowering time, is sympatric with C. multiflorus and their flowering periods overlap, but the former is more successful reproductively. Retama sphaerocarpa is clearly spring flowering, with an extremely short duration of flowering (c. 6.5 weeks), but, unlike the other two species which disperse their seeds in the same season in which they are produced, it staggers the dispersal of its diaspores over more than one year. Despite the great flower per plant production, especially in Retama sphaerocarpa, and of the number of fruit initiated, the final crop of fruit and seed/plant is low in the three species (C. multiflorus: fruit 8.40% and seeds 1.96%; C. striatus: fruit 13.09% and seeds 4.12%; Retama sphaerocarpa: fruit 5.65% and seeds 1.33%).
Electrophoretic evidence supporting a theory of allopolyploid origin of the peatmoss Sphagnum jensenii
Authors: Såstad Sigurd M. , Flatberg Kjell I. , Cronberg Nils
Published: March 2008

Based on morphological evidence it has been hypothesised that Sphagnum jensenii is an allopolyploid, with S. annulatum and S. balticum as progenitors. Analysis of nine putative enzyme loci carried out on populations of these three species from central Norway, strongly corroborate this hypothesis. Sphagnum jensenii showed fixed heterozygosity at four of the loci suggesting that it is an allopolyploid. At each of the loci screened, extant populations of S. annulatum and S. balticum shared alleles with S. jensenii. The taxonomic interpretation is that S. jensenii should be recognised as a distinct species different from S. annulatum. Implications of allopolyploidy on ecological tolerances and niche breadth are briefly discussed.
Controversy in Buxales systematic positioning
Authors: Castilho Rachel Oliveira , Bulhões Ana Angélica da Silva , Kaplan Maria Auxiliadora Coelho
Published: March 2008

Buxales (sensu Dahlgren 1980) is an order formed by two families: Buxaceae and Daphniphyllaceae. Among the families of Rosiflorae, (or Rosanae), the positioning of Buxaceae and Daphniphyllaceae show great controversy according to the modern botanists. In order to verify the validity of 1980‐Dahlgren's positioning of Buxales (with Buxaceae and Daphniphyllaceae) into the superorder Rosiflorae, a detailed study of micromolecular composition of the Rosiflorae families have been made. The triterpene alkaloids were found to be the prevailing class of secondary metabolites (91%) in Buxales. Triterpenes, steroids and flavonoids can also be found together with very low amount of iridoids. It is important to note that it has not been recorded any reference on the hydrolisable tannin production by these two famylies. However tannins are the characteristic natural products produced by Rosiflorae species, so this kind of compounds have been considered the truly chemotaxonomic markers for the superorder. Excluding Buxales, the superorder Rosiflorae, shows a poor tendency for alkaloid production: only 10 from 40 families present such kind of metabolism even so in a very timid way of expression. In conclusion buxales as stipulated by Dahlgren is characterized by an expressive production of squalene‐derived alkalois, feeble presence of flavonoids and terpenoids and lack of references about tannin production. On the other hand, the other Rosiflorae families are characterized by the huge production of tannins. Thus these chemical features indicate scarce affinities among these two plant groups.
Structure, floristic composition, and conservation potentials of a remnant gallery forest at ‘Mare du Dragon’, Senegal
Authors: Lykke Anne Mette , Goudiaby Assane
Published: March 2008

Woody plants in the last existing fragment of closed gallery forest in Delta du Saloum National Park, Senegal, were investigated by use of a 0.6 ha transect covering the main part of the gallery forest. There were 24 species and 369 individuals > 5 cm dbh with a basal area of 12.6 m2, 1062 individuals ≥ 1 cm dbh in 31 species, and 1730 individuals < 1 cm dbh in 29 species. Constrained clustering revealed six floristically distinct sections along the transect, and these sections coincided with structural differences. The vegetation in the study area is marked by degradation caused by frequent and intense fires coming from the surrounding savanna and by declining precipitation. However, the gallery forest is unique to the area and of crucial importance for conserving biodiversity. It can in the future be important as a resource‐base for restoration of the gallery forest system by means of natural regeneration.
Taxonomic characterization of littoral sabuline populations of Mibora minima (Poaceae) in the northwestern Iberian Peninsula
Authors: Ortiz S. , Rodríguez‐Oubiña J. , Guitián P.
Published: March 2008

We conclude that populations of Mibora minima from sand‐dune in the northwest Iberian Peninsula, should be considered as a distinct subspecies (subsp. Iittorea), distinguished from the subspecies minima by, inter alia, its long imbricate spikelets. Anatomical, cytological, biogeographical and ecological characteristics of the new taxon are presented.
Hypochaeris alliatae group (Asteraceae) in the western Mediterranean Region
Authors: de Mera Antonio Galán , de Castro Emilio , Orellana José Alfredo Vicente
Published: March 2008

A taxonomic, ecological, and phytogeographical revision of the Hypochaeris alliatae group is made. As a result, the name of H. alliatae (vs H. laevigata) is proposed. The recent taxa H. leontodontoides var. glauca and H. rutea are synonymised with H. alliatae, and H. leontodontoides var. atlantica var. nov., is described. Using chromosomal counts, morphological and histological characters, H. angustifolia is excluded from the H. alliatae group. A phylogenetic and phytogeographical assay has been made in the context of geologic phenomena from the Miocene and Pliocene in the western Mediterranean Basin.
A new subspecies of Paraphysomonas punctata (Paraphysomonadaceae, Chrysophyceae)
Authors: Olsen Nils Erik , Poulsen Louise Kjeldgaard , Reuss Nina , Steinarsdottir Svava S.
Published: March 2008

A new subspecies, ssp. hexagona within the species complex of Paraphysomonas punctata is described. It is particularly distinguished by its large round to oblong perforations and also deviates in other respects from known subspecies of P punctata, so that it is here described as a new subspecies, ssp. hexagona. Type material has been collected in a small Danish pool in the Copenhagen area. A previous finding of scales with similar large perforations has been considered to be an indication of weakly silicified scales. This, however, cannot be the case since the present algae have been found in silica‐enriched samples. Furthermore the pool is shallow and fully mixed throughout the year.
Four new species of Sida (Malvaceae) from the Horn of Africa
Authors: Thulin Mats
Published: March 2008

Sida floccosa, sp. nov., from eastern Ethiopia and north‐western Somalia, S. ogadensis, sp. nov., from eastern Ethiopia and central Somalia, 5. calliantha, sp. nov., from coastal dunes in southern Somalia, and S. longipedicellata sp. nov., from coastal dunes and sandy plains in central and south‐central Somalia, are described and illustrated.
Three new species of Centella series Montanae
Authors: Schubert Mahalia T. R. , van Wyk Ben‐Erik
Published: March 2008

Three new species of Centella are described: C. cryptocarpa, C. gymnocarpa and C. longifolia. These species are similar to C. montana and in order to clarify species limits, the latter is also described and illustrated. The concept of the series Montanae is broadened to include all species with transversely oblong fruit of which the commissure is narrower than the rest of the fruit.
Plant species diversity in an old, traditionally managed hay meadow compared to abandoned hay meadows in southwest Norway
Authors: Losvik Mary H.
Published: March 2008

A chronosequence, representing a successional series, was used for the comparison of a hay meadow site managed in an old traditional way for at least a hundred years, and hay meadow sites abandoned for about 10, 20 and 30 years, respectively. Old traditional management included grazing early and late in the growing season, mowing in August and light or no fertilizing. The tree cover was the most important factor deciding the composition of vegetation. Time since abandonment was not completely correlated to tree cover, as some plots had a dense canopy and others were situated in the open. The total species number decreased with number of years since abandonment in plots > 0.001 m2and <100 m2. The highest species number in 1 m2 plots was recorded in the managed site, with 38 species of phanerogams. Fourtyeight % of the indicators of traditional management present in the managed site was recorded in the site which had been abandoned for 30 years. Frequency — log area curves made it possible to group species according to persistence in the sward. As a result, a group of functional indicators of rare hay meadows in the region was distinguished.
Habitat type and primary colonisation of annual shoots of conifer saplings by epiphytic lichens
Authors: Hyvärinen M. , Halonen P. , Kauppi M.
Published: March 2008

The ability of single lichen species to colonise annual shoots of Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris) and Norway spruce (Picea abies) under a variety of microclimatic conditions was assessed. Lichens were found to colonise the annual shoots of conifer saplings relatively slowly. Hypogymnia physodes is almost invariably the first sorediate species to attach to the bark whereas the other sorediate species appear only exceptionally on shoots in their first couple of years. The age of the substrate seems to be less important to pendulous species, however, probably due to their ability to reproduce also by thallus fragmentation and not only by soredia or spores as most other species do. The majority of the species colonise the annual shoots of spruce faster than those of pine, which suggests that bark exfoliation can effectively hinder colonisation. The colonisation rate of most of the species is clearly reduced under open canopy emphasising the importance of diaspore supply from lichens growing on mature trees.
Geographical differentiation of Rumex longifolius
Authors: Holm Christa , Korpelainen Helena
Published: March 2008

Based on controlled growth experiments, the shape of leaves in Rumex longifolius changes along a gradient ranging from northwestern to southeastern Fennoscandia. The northern plants have broader leaves than do plants from more southern areas. The pattern of leaf margins is associated with the shape, broad leaves having less wrinkled margins. The inflorescence height follows a north‐south gradient. The plants from southern Europe, Denmark and Iceland resemble northern Fennoscandian plants, while the Canadian plants possess intermediate morphology and the Russian plants resemble the plants from southeastern and central Fennoscandia. Genetic differentiation was examined using RAPD markers. The mean genetic similarities calculated between populations and between individuals within populations equalled 0.833 and 0.898, respectively. The clustering analysis showed that the genetic features of R. longifolius populations do not display comparable geographical differentiation as do the morphological variables.
Distribution of taxa with alkaloids and/or related compounds in Vikos‐Aoos National Park (NW Greece)
Authors: Hanlidou E. , Kokkalou E. , Kokkini S.
Published: March 2008

A screening of alkaloids was applied to 116 angiospermae taxa (species and subspecies) of Vikos‐Aoos National Park (NW Greece). Positive results were obtained from 48 taxa. A higher frequency of alkaloids and/or related compounds was recorded in the widespread taxa than those having a narrower range. Furthermore, a distribution pattern of the incidence of alkaloids in the different vegetation zones of the National Park was detected; the highest number of both short‐lived and perennial alkaloid‐bearing taxa was found in the ruderal sites. Our results are compatible with some earlier works showing that the occurrence of nitrogen‐containing secondary metabolites is related to habitat conditions.
The tropical African Geophila ingens (Rubiaceae‐Psychotrieae) reinvestigated
Authors: Piesschaert F. , Robbrecht E. , Poulsen A. D. , Smets E.
Published: March 2008

New collections of Geophila ingens are used for a detailed documentation, description, and discussion of the ecology and affinities of this poorly known African species. It is mainly characterised by its variable leaves, the stamen insertion below the internal indumentum of the corolla tube and the straight pyrenes. The ovate leaf blades with frequently rounded bases and the sometimes slightly woody base of the stems indicate that G. ingens may be a primitive representative of the genus. G. ingens occurs and reproduces in closed canopy forests. It has a macrodisjunct distribution (Cameroon, Congo‐Kinshasa and Uganda), corroborating existing hypotheses on the location of glacial forest refuges.
A new species of Plectranthus (Lamiaceae) from Ethiopia and Kenya
Authors: Ryding Olof
Published: March 2008

A new species from Ethiopia and the northern Kenya, Plectranthus minutiflorus is described and illustrated.
A new species of Dicoma (Asteraceae‐Mutisieae) from Swaziland
Authors: Ortiz Santiago , Pulgar Iñigo
Published: March 2008

A new species, Dicoma swazilandica, belonging to the tribe Mutisieae (Asteraceae) is described and illustrated. Differences between the new species and D. anomaia, the most similar species, are listed.
Taxonomy, phylogeny and biogeography of Kickxia and Nanorrhinum (Scrophulariaceae)
Authors: Ghebrehiwet Medhanie
Published: March 2008

Phylogenetic studies in Kickxia sensu lato, using morphological characters, show that two groups of species appear as distinct clades, one corresponding to sect. Kickxia and the other corresponding to sect. Valvatae. The differences between the two sections are of the same magnitude as those used to separate other closely related genera in the tribe. Therefore, the treatment of sect. Valvatae as a separate genus, Nanorrhinum, is proposed. Results from a dispersal‐vicariance analysis indicate that the area of origin for Nanorrhinum is Arabia, whereas for Kickxia sensu stricto it is either Macaronesia, the Mediterranean Region or both these areas combined. The taxonomy of Nanorrhinum is revised in detail, whereas for Kickxia a synoptical treatment is given, mainly based on previous literature. The results indicate that the plasticity of the species of Nanorrhinum, as well as the variation within populations in the field, is often much greater than previously thought, and that, therefore, far too many species have been described. In the present study ten species are recognized in Nanorrhinum. New combinations are N. azraqensis, N. stenanthum, N. hastatum, N. elegans, N. kuriensis, N. asparagoides, N. heterophyllum and N. woodii. Three lectotypes are selected. Keys to all taxa are given, and new information on chromosome numbers and sexual systems are provided for several species.
Two new species of Acacia (Leguminosae‐Mimosoideae) from Yemen
Authors: Thulin Mats , Al‐Gifri Abdul Nasser
Published: March 2008

The new species Acacia harala and A. mahrana, both from southern Yemen, are described and illustrated. A. harala belongs to A. subgen. Acacia and is known from the Abyan and Shabwah Regions, whereas A. mahrana belongs to A. subgen. Aculeiferum and is known only from the Mahrah Region.
A new species of Alcea (Malvaceae) from Iran
Authors: Ghahreman Ahmad , Pakravan Maneezhe , Assadi Mostafa
Published: March 2008

Alcea mozaffarianii is described and illustrated as a new species from a mountain area in north‐western Iran. The differences to similar taxa are discussed.
Acritopappus diamantinicus (Asteraceae, Eupatorieae), a new species from Chapada Diamantina, Bahia, Brazil
Authors: Bautista H. P. , Ortiz S. , Rodríguez‐Oubiña J.
Published: March 2008

During studies of the genus Acritopappus, we have found a new species, herein denominated A. diamantinicus (Eupatorieae, Asteraceae), which appears to be endemic to the Morro do Pai Inácio, an inselberg in the central part of Chapada Diamantina in the State of Bahia in Brazil. We present a description with illustrations and information on distribution and ecology, and discuss relationships with the other species of this genus.
A new species of Polygala (Polygalaceae) from Ethiopia
Authors: Gilbert M. G.
Published: March 2008

Polygala mooneyi from Sidamo Region, southern Ethiopia, is described as new. It is compared to P. transvaalensis var. kagerensis from Rwanda, Uganda and Tanzania.
A new subspecific combination in Erophila (Brassicaceae) from Ethiopia
Authors: Jonsell Bengt
Published: March 2008

The new combination Erophila verna subsp. macrosperma is made.
Systematics of the Burmannia coelestis complex (Burmanniaceae)
Authors: Zhang Dianxiang , Saunders Richard M. K.
Published: March 2008

Patterns of morphological variation in the Burmannia coelestis species complex are investigated, and three distinct species recognized. Burmannia coelestis sensu stricto (widespread in Asia, extending from eastern Nepal and Assam to New Guinea and northern Australia) possesses outer perianth lobes with conspicuous double margins running the entire lengths of the lobes. The name B. chinensis is revived for specimens from north‐eastern India, southern China, northern Indochina and northern Thailand which possess outer perianth lobes with single margins or short double margins. A new species, B. filamentosa, is described from Guangdong province, China; it is distinctive in possessing narrow triangular outer and inner perianth lobes, and stamens with prominent filaments.
Myristicaceae novelties from Ecuador
Authors: Jaramillo Tatiana S. , Muriel Priscilla , Rodrigues William A. , Balslev Henrik
Published: March 2008

Virola aequatorialis is described as a new species from the coastal plain of Ecuador; it differs from the southeast Brazilian V. gardneri in several characters including its prominently reticulate leaves and the anthers which are obtuse and slightly shorter than the filament column. Osteophloeum platyspermum var. sulcatum and Otoba glycycarpa are proposed as new combinations.
Plant communities in broad‐leaved deciduous forests in Hordaland county, Western Norway
Authors: Aarrestad Per Arild
Published: March 2008

The vegetation of broad‐leaved deciduous forests in Hordaland, Western Norway is described with regards to species composition and structure. The investigation is based on phytosociological analyses of native forest stands dominated by Corylus avellana, Fraxinus excelsior, Ulmus glabra, or Tilia cordata. Two‐way‐indicator analysis (TWINSPAN) and correspondence analysis (CA) are used to distinguish different vegetation types and assess possible gradients in the vegetation data. The vegetation types are discussed in relation to equivalent forest communities and to syntaxonomical units. Two forest types are described at the first hierarchical TWINSPAN level: 1) A hygrophilous and slightly thermophilous Fraxinus excelsior‐Cirriphyllum piliferum forest characterised by an open tree canopy, a dense field layer of tall herbs and ferns, and a high cover of bryophytes. 2) A thermophilous and less hygrophilous Corylus avellana‐Brachypodium sylvaticum forest characterised by a dense tree layer, a more open field layer with larger elements of small herbs, and a somewhat lower bryophyte cover. The CA analysis clearly separates the samples from the first TWINSPAN division along the first ordination axis. Five forest types have been described at the second hierarchical level, mainly associated with differences in mesotrophic and eutrophic species, but there is clearly a gradient structure in the species composition between these plant communities. In relation to syntaxonomy, the first TWINSPAN division supports the separation of the west Norwegian broad‐leaved deciduous forests into a hygrophilous plant community, the Eurhynchio‐Fraxinetum (Blom 1982) Øvstedal 1985 and a drier and more thermophilous community, the Primulo‐Ulmetum (Blom 1982) Øvstedal 1985.
Cory bas ecarinatus sp, now (Orchidaceae) from Thailand
Authors: Anker Katja , Seidenfaden Gunnar
Published: March 2008

A new species of the genus Corybas is proposed. It is the first record of the genus from Thailand.