Showing papers in "Nordic Journal of Botany in 2013"

A new taxonomy of the family Teloschistaceae

Abstract: The lichen family Teloschistaceae is one of the larger families of lichenized fungi. Currently it includes one very large heterogenous genus, Caloplaca, with some 1000 or more species with a vast variation in morphology, anatomy and chemistry. The rest of the family is split into 1015 smaller genera, each with 20 or fewer species. There is no modern classification of the family based on molecular data. Here we attempt a first phylogenetic evaluation of a large part of the family, including a total of 337 species. Of these, 162 were used in a combined phylogenetic analysis of the ribosomal RNA sequence markers nrITS, nrLSU and mrSSU, using Bayesian inference. We also analysed all species using nrITS data, split into four different analyses. As a result we propose a new classification of the family, where a total of 39 genera are recognized, of which 31 are newly described or resurrected. The new genera are: Athallia, Austroplaca, Bryoplaca, Calogaya, Cerothallia, Flavoplaca, Gondwania, Haloplaca, Orientophila, Pachypeltis, Parvoplaca, Rufoplaca, Shackletonia, Scutaria, Sirenophila, Solitaria, Squamulea, Stellarangia, Teloschistopsis, Usnochroma, Variospora, Villophora and Wetmoreana. Resurrected genera are Blastenia, Dufourea, Follmannia, Gyalolechia, Leproplaca, Polycauliona, Pyrenodesmia and Xanthocarpia. The species Orientophila subscopularis is described as new. A third subfamily, Teloschistoideae, is proposed to accommodate the genus Teloschistes and related genera, parallel to the two previously recognized subfamilies Xanthorioideae and Caloplacoideae. We also show the large plasticity in both morphological and anatomical characters between closely related species within genera, indicating the low value of these as evolutionary markers. The secondary chemistry is a better marker in some parts of the family. We recognize a large number of geographically delimited clades with clear centres of evolution, but often showing large variation in morphology and anatomy. (Less)

Topography as a driver of local terrestrial vascular plant diversity patterns

Abstract: At landscape and regional scales topography is recognized as one of the most important determinants of vascular plant diversity, primarily due to the infl uence of mountains. As temperature changes markedly over the elevation ranges in mountain areas, topography off ers a wide variety of diff erent habitats as well as buff ering against climate change. However, for local vegetation, notably in lowland areas, the general importance of topography is less well recognized and the mechanisms by which it exerts infl uence on local vascular plant diversity are not comprehensively understood. In this review, we provide an overview of the evidence for the diff erent mechanisms involved in topography ' s control of local patterns in potential vegetation drivers, namely incident solar energy, wind exposure, hydrology, geochemistry, and biotic conditions. Furthermore, we review the processes through which these factors shape local terrestrial vascular plant diversity patterns and provide directions for future studies on this topic. We fi nd that topography is an important factor for local vascular plant diversity patterns in a broad range of habitats throughout the world, even in relatively fl at lowlands. However, the mechanisms involved are varied and complex. Local patterns in soil moisture seem to be aff ected by topography through more mechanisms than other topographically controlled factors and have a strong and consistent infl uence on local plant diversity. Hence, local hydrology is probably the main mechanistic factor through which topography infl uences local terrestrial vascular plant diversity patterns. Future research should focus on employing high-coverage fi ne-resolution topographic data to comprehensively explore the role of topography in controlling local dynamics over large areas. Moreover, we recommend including several diff erent habitats, particularly those in which the role of topography is poorly understood. Finally, we propose to integrate relevant functional topographic variables such as topographic wetness indices instead of simple topographic measures into future investigations.

Developments in the taxonomy of silica-scaled chrysophytes - from morphological and ultrastructural to molecular approaches

Abstract: Taxonomy in silica-scaled chrysophytes has gone through three morphological phases. From primary studies of the cell morphology in the 18th century, the focus was in the 20th century replaced by studies of the silica structures of the cell envelope. Now, in the latest decades the importance of DNA sequencing has been recognized, not only to support the taxonomic framework but also to obtain new understanding of taxonomic relations among particular taxa. In the first part of this review, we provide a historical overview of the developments in the taxonomy of scale-bearing chrysophytes. In the second part, we present a phylogenetic reconstruction of chrysophyte algae, updated by newly obtained SSU rDNA and rbcL sequences of several isolated Synura, Mallomonas and Chrysosphaerella species. We detected significant incongruence between the phylogenies obtained from the different datasets, with the SSU rDNA phylogram being the most congruent with the morphological data. Significant saturation of the first rbcL codon position could indicate the presence of positive selection in the rbcL dataset. Within the Synurales, the relationships revealed by the phylogenetic analyses highlight the artificial infragenetic classification of Mallomonas and Synura, and the occurrence of cryptic diversity within a number of traditionally defined species. Finally, three new combinations are proposed based on the phylogenetic analyses: Tessellaria lapponica, Synura asmundiae and S. bjoerkii. Silica-scaled chrysophytes belong to the class Synurophyceae and the family Paraphysomonadaceae in the class Chrysophyceae. Historically, their taxonomy has passed through several stages, and will here be discussed from morphological, light-microscopical, electron-microscopical, and molecular viewpoints. After the beginning in the 19th century with purely coarse-morphological concepts of cell construction, the scaly envelopes of these genera were discovered, and light microscope (LM) studies of the silica structures were initiated and came into focus for the taxonomy and identification. Later, electron microscopy (EM) opened up for new possibilities, and the ultrastructure of scales became the standard tool for taxonomy. Several genera were exclusively described and studied by EM.

Species richness and endemicity in the Spanish vascular flora

Abstract: Data from an updated and revised checklist of the Spanish flora is analyzed. The Spanish vascular plant flora is composed of 204 families, 1433 genera and 7071 species. Floristic data are analysed by considering three regions: mainland Spain with 5984 species, the Balearic Islands with 1521 species and Canary Islands with 2066 species. Extinct species are included in the analysis, with an extinction rate of 0.35% of the flora. A total of 1488 endemic species are recognized, which account for 21% of the Spanish flora. The rate of endemism in the Canary Islands is 25.9%, considerably higher than for the Balearic Islands (6.9%) and for mainland Spain (13.8%). A list of the 35 strict endemic genera is compiled, of which 65.7% are Canarian, and another list of 27 subendemic genera of which 48.1% are also Canarian. An estimated 12% of the Spanish flora is non-native, with large variation between the 20.7% of the Canary flora, 10.5% of mainland Spain and 9.7% of the Balearic Islands. Finally, the composition of the Spanish flora for large groups and families is ana lysed. The data show that species richness and endemicity rates have been overestimated by previous authors, and are similar to other Mediterranean countries. It is concluded that a complete revision of the Macaronesian flora is strongly needed to obtain an accurate comparison with the flora of other areas. © 2013 The Authors.

The biogeography of the Isthmus of Kra region: a review

Abstract: This review examines the evidence for a significant biogeographic divide on the Thai–Malay Peninsula of mainland southeast Asia (SE Asia) associated with the Isthmus of Kra. The divide is believed to be of the same scale as ‘Wallace’s Line’, though it remains less well-known, less well-studied, and its location and cause are enigmatic. This review presents relevant geological, geographical, climatic, biogeographic and sea-level data, discusses some exemplar distributional patterns and concludes with an integrated discussion.

Floral size variation in Campanula rotundifolia (Campanulaceae) along altitudinal gradients: patterns and possible selective mechanisms

Abstract: We investigated patterns of flower-size variation along altitudinal gradients in the bee-pollinated perennial Campanula rotundifolia (Campanulaceae) by examining 22 Norwegian populations at altitudes between 240 and 1100 m a.s.l. We explored potential mechanisms for the underlying pattern by quantifying pollinator–faunal composition, pollinator-visitation rates and pollen limitation of seed set in subsets of the study populations. Despite a decrease in plant size, several measures of flower size increased with elevation. Bumble bees were the main pollinators at both alpine and lowland sites in the study area. However, species composition of the pollinator fauna differed, and pollinators were larger in higher-elevation than in lower-elevation sites. Pollinator visitation rates were lower at higher-elevations than at lower elevations. Pollen limitation of seed set did not vary significantly with altitude. Our results are consistent with differences in bumble-bee size and visitation rates as causal mechanisms for the relatively larger flowers at higher elevations, in three non-mutually exclusive ways: 1) Larger flowers reflect selection for increased attractiveness where pollinators are rare. 2) Larger and fewer flowers represent a risk avoidance strategy where the probability of pollination is low on any given day. 3) Flower size variation reflects selection to improve the fit of pollinators with fertile structures by matching flower size to pollinator size across sites.

Stipa zeravshanica sp. nov. (Poaceae), an endemic species from rocky walls of the western Pamir Alai Mountains (middle Asia)

Abstract: Stipa zeravshanica M. Nobis sp. nov. from the western Pamir Alai Mts (Tajikistan) is described and illustrated. Morphologically, the new species is similar to S. gracilis, but it is easily distinguishable by pilose (vs. glabrous) lower part of the awn, and generally somewhat longer ligules of the vegetative shoots. Epidermal patterns of the lemma in S. zeravshanica and three other closely related taxa, namely S. gracilis, S. himalaica and S. orientalis, were examined by means of SEM. The main macro-morphological and micro-morphological characteristics differentiating all mentioned species are presented. Additionally, a lectotype for S. gracilis is designated. Based on phytosociological releves prepared during field investigation in the western Pamir Alai Mts, a new plant association Asperulo albiflorae–Stipetum zeravshanicae, occurring on shelves and rocky crevices is also described.

Freakish patterns - species and species concepts in apomicts

Abstract: Apomict groups keep challenging taxonomists, in classifications as well as in more fundamental question about the nature of apomictic species The latter question is not just an academic one, because the outcome influences practical decisions on biodiversity and conservation A historical overview over the species problem shows that a period of confusion and proliferation of species concepts between 1940 and 1990 was followed by an increasing consensus at the end of the 20th century that the species category is heterogeneous Species come in kinds, which is understandable in light of their different evolutional histories Recently, Wilkins stated that we do not need a generally applicable species concept, because species are not an a priori category into which all biological organisms must fit, but salient phenomena that are to be explained Not only biparental, but also asexual organisms often form such species-as-phenomena, explained as some combination of adaptation to an ecological niche and reproductive compatibility The above is illustrated by historical and current studies in three well-studied apomict groups, viz Ranunculus cassubicus agg, Rubus subgen Rubus and Hieracium (subgen Hieracium and Pilosella) Species in the Ranunculus cassubicus aggregate are the few existing sexuals, which are surrounded by a hybrid swarm of only partial apomictic forms, whereas in Rubus subgen Rubus and Hieracium ss sexuals as well as numerous apomicts form well defined species How species should be circumscribed in Pilosella is yet to be clarified Largely, the differences between these groups can be contributed to their different modes of apomixis and the associated retained sexuality From this review it is clear that the question is not so much ‘What is a species?‘, but ‘What is a species in this particular group?‘ To answer this question a thorough knowledge and understanding of the biology of the genus in question is required

An annotated checklist of the orchids of Nepal

Abstract: An annotated checklist comprised of 458 taxa of orchids known from Nepal is provided, including 104 genera, 437 species, 16 varieties, 3 subspecies and 2 forma and 18 endemic species. In Nepal, orchid species are distributed from 60–5200 m a.s.l. In the checklist, notes on altitudinal ranges, habit, habitat, global distribution, phenology, etc. are presented. Nepal, a small Himalayan country, lies between 26°12′ to 30°27′N and 80°04′E to 88°12′E covering an area of 147 181 km 2 . The diverse physiography, climate, edaphic factors, etc. within an altitude range of 60 – 8848 m a.s.l. has favored vegetation within six bioclimatic zones from tropical luxuriant forests in the south to the alpine scrub or barren high mountain in the north (Chaudhary 1998). The tropical zone is dominated by sal (Shorea robusta), tropical deciduous riverine and tropical evergreen forests. The sal forest is associated with Adina cardifolia, Albizia procera, Butea monosperma, Acacia catechu, Bombax ceiba, Dalbergia sisoo, Syzygium cumini, Terminalia bellirica, T. chebula, Zizyphus mauritiana, etc. In the subtropical zone, Schima–Castanopsis, pine and alder forest types are dominant. The temperate zone is represented by lower temperate mixed broad-leaved, temperate mixed evergreen and upper temperate mixed broad-leaved forests. The subalpine zone is characterized by silver fir (Abies spectabilis) and birch– Rhododendron forest. This zone also includes a pure forest belt of Betula utilis, in association with several species of Rhododendron, Junipererus, etc. In this region, tree trunks and branches are festooned with parasitic orchids, filaments of mosses and various lichens. The alpine zone covers areas above 4100 m a.s.l. and is associated with Juniperus, Rhododendron, Caragana–Lonicera and alpine meadows. In the nival zone, above 5000 m a.s.l., some mosses and lichens are found up to 7400 m a.s.l. (Baniya et al. 2010) and they are known as the ‘Arctic or cold deserts.’

Seven new species of Miliusa (Annonaceae) from Thailand

Abstract: Seven new species of the genus Miliusa are described from Thailand (M. fragrans, M. hirsuta, M. intermedia, M. nakhonsiana, M. sessilis, M. thailandica, and M. umpangensis). A key to the 19 species of Miliusa in Thailand is provided. In addition, the complete taxonomic nomenclature of all known species of Miliusa in Thailand is given, with several new proposed synonyms. The new as well as the known species of Miliusa in Thailand are classified into four morphological groups on the basis of a combination of flower and/or inflorescence position and inner petal morphology proposed earlier.

The diatom flora in temporary ponds of Doñana National Park (southwest Spain): five new taxa

Abstract: Donana temporary ponds (southwest Spain) form a system of water bodies of remarkable ecological singularity with a high protection status. However, its species composition, diversity, and distribution of algal communities are largely unknown. During a biological survey carried out in shallow temporary ponds in 2010, several unknown diatom taxa were found in various population densities in the epiphyton of these systems. Detailed light and scanning electron microscopy observations allowed the description of five of them (Eunotia vozmedianoi, Planothidium lacustre, Halamphora tharsis, G. undulans and Pinnularia acidophila var. baetica) as taxa new to science. Differential diagnostic criteria with respect to similar taxa, together with ecological and biogeographical implications of these findings, are briefly discussed. Our results support recent studies indicating that endemism in diatoms might be a widespread pattern.

The role of the Weberian Reform in European Rubus research and the taxonomy of locally distributed species – which species should we describe?

Abstract: After Sudre published his treatment of European Rubi in the early 20th century, Rubus taxonomy in Europe suffered from a scholastic phase and a longer period of stagnation. The so-called ‘Weberian Reform’ initiated the necessary revival of European batology. It rests on four major pillars: 1) mapping projects over larger areas, 2) evaluation of type material, 3) visits to loci classici, and 4) evaluation of the status of species by means of their distribution areas. Subsequently, it has become widely accepted in European batology that only species with a distribution area over 50 km should be described. Although this pragmatic species concept has been useful in making a continent-wide overview of brambles, we argue that it is lacking a scientific basis, and should thus be rejected. There are at least four distinctive problems when treating locally distributed brambles: 1) primary hybrids, 2) locally distributed stabilised apomicts, 3) intraspecific variation in species with a larger distribution range, and 4) unstabilised swarms of hybridogenic biotypes and the derivates thereof (mainly in the montane regions). When facing the problems in Rubus systematics, we argue that all independently evolving lineages should be described as species, including apomictic lineages with very small distribution ranges, both from the mountain-dwelling glandular series and from the lowlands. Neither primary hybrids (which are not stabilised by apomixis), nor biotypes without an independent and coherent distribution area are independently evolving lineages, and should thus not be described as species. We advocate a restrained attitude when describing new species with limited distribution areas.

Zonation of plant cover and environmental factors in wetlands of the Sanjiang Plain, northeast China

Abstract: The zonation of depressional and riparian wetlands in the Sanjiang Plain of northeastern China was studied to describe their vegetation composition and environmental variables. We sampled 108 plots in 6 depression and riparian wetlands. Samples were classified into 4 groups using two-way indicator species analysis (TWINSPAN). Emergent marsh vegetation was characterized by Carex lasiocarpa and C. pseudocuraica, meadow marsh vegetation by tussock species such as Carex appendiculata and C. meyeriana, wet meadow vegetation by Calamangrostis angustifolia and Carex appendiculata, and shrub meadow vegetation by the shrubs Betula fruticosa, Alnus sibirica and Salix rosmarinifolia and the graminids Carex schmidtii and Calamagrostis angustifolia. CCA ordination showed that water table, organic matter and available N were the major factors explaining the vegetation zonation pattern. Compared with other Northern Hemisphere regions, bog and fen vegetation are completely absent due to climatic conditions unfavorable for peat formation. Out of four vegetation types, only the Carex lasiocarpa community and the C. pseudo-curaica community have been found in other regions. However, at the species level many species are widespread and some species are vicariant or pseudovicariant to other regions in the world. Our study suggests that topography and hydrology may be the most important determinants of the vegetation pattern in this region.

Yuchengia, a new polypore genus segregated from Perenniporia (Polyporales) based on morphological and molecular evidence

Abstract: Yuchengia gen. nov. is proposed to accommodate Perenniporia narymica. It represents a monophyletic lineage within the core polyporoid clade based on sequences of the rDNA ITS and nLSU regions, and it is distinct from Perenniporia s.s. Yuchengia shares some characters with Perenniporia, both having thick-walled and cyanophilous basidiospores, but differs by having acyanophilous and amyloid skeletal hyphae dissolving in KOH, and non-dextrinoid basidiospores.

Keraunea gen. nov. (Convolvulaceae) from Brazil

Abstract: Keraunea Cheek & Simao-Bianchini gen. nov. (Convolvulaceae) from Brazil is described and illustrated as the third known neuropeltoid genus. It appears allied to the Old World genera of Neuropeltis Wall and Neuropeltopsis Ooststr. in having wind-dispersed fruits not by enlarged sepals, but subtended by an enlarged papery bract to which the pedicel is adnate, and flowers in which the bracteoles are absent or usually very inconspicuous. Keraunea brasiliensis, the single species thus far known, is here assessed as ‘Endangered’.

Numerical analysis of morphology of natural hybrids between Carex hostiana and the members of Carex flava agg. (Cyperaceae)

Abstract: Uni-variate and multi-variate statistical methods, based on data taken from dried specimens, were used to determine the morphological variance of Carex hostiana 3 Carex flava agg. hybrids and to establish their parents among members of the C. flava complex. The following hybrids were found: C. demissa 3 hostiana [C. 3 fulva], C. hostiana 3 lepidocarpa [C. ×leutzii] and C. flava 3 hostiana [C. 3 xanthocarpa]. The least variable traits, namely beak length, utricle length, ratio of beak length to the overall utricle length, female spike width, and width of the lowest bract, proved to be the most useful in delimiting the hybrids. Carex flava 3 hostiana specimens usually have long utricles and beaks, wide male and female spikes, as well as wide bracts and leaf blades. Carex hostiana 3 lepidocarpa specimens are characterized by relatively short beaks (with low ratio of beak length to the overall utricle length) and narrow bracts. Common features of C. demissa 3 hostiana specimens, on the other hand, are male spikes with long peduncles, usually longly parted female spikes and a long beak compared to the overall utricle length.

Centaurea shahuensis and C. ravansarensis spp. nov. (Asteraceae, Cardueae) from west Iran

Abstract: Two new species of Centaurea L. sect. Cynaroides Boiss. ex Walp. (Asteraceae), C. shahuensis Ranjbar and Negaresh and C. ravansarensis Ranjbar and Negaresh are described and illustrated from Kermanshah Province, west Iran. They are closely related to C. regia Boiss. subsp. regia. However, C. shahuensis differs from it by median stem leaves broadly oblanceolate or subpandurate, phyllaries densely lanate-tomentose, appendages small, concealing a minor part of phyllaries, and also median appendage margin entire sometimes with 1–2 cilia, 1.2–3.0 mm long on each side. Centaurea ravansarensis is distinguished by upper stem leaves loosely arachnoid, phyllaries loosely floccose-tomentose, inner appendages deep brown to blackish, and spine 4.5–6.0 mm long. Habitat, conservation status and the geographical distribution of the new species are given.

Typification and redelimitation of Nepenthes alata with notes on the N. alata group, and N. negros sp. nov. from the Philippines

Abstract: In the course of studies to typify what has been regarded as the most widespread and common of the endemic Philippines species of Nepenthes, N. alata Blanco, we were able to review the morphological variation in what we previously regarded as a polymorphic species. This led us to redelimit that species in a narrower sense, to resurrect N. graciliflora Elmer, and to recognise N. negros sp. nov., here assessed as ‘Critically Endangered’ (CR) using the IUCN standard. The Nepenthes alata group is characterised and a key to its species is provided.

Mating system variation in Veronica (Plantaginaceae): inferences from pollen/ovule ratios and other reproductive traits

Abstract: The pollen–ovule ratio (P/O) is commonly used to estimate the mode of sexual reproduction in flowering plants. In previous studies, a clear correspondence has been detected between this character and the degree of autogamy. We here investigate variation in this character and its expected correlates in the genus Veronica (Plantaginaceae). Pollen–ovule ratios of 45 species representing eleven percent of all the species in the genus were investigated and compared with results from crossing experiments from previous studies. In addition, multiple populations of 17 of the 45 studied species were sampled and a controlled-environment experiment was conducted to evaluate the extent of intraspecific variation. Moreover, relationships between P/O and other primary and secondary reproductive characters of the Veronica flower were investigated in relation to a phylogenetic hypothesis in order to determine the phylogenetic constraints on reproductive characters. The differences in P/O among species correspond well to the diversity of mating systems in Veronica and correlate well with other floral characters such as corolla size. These characters together seem to allow a powerful and fast tool to infer mating systems. However, causes for intraspecific variation of P/O, such as different cytotypes, ecotypes or different growth conditions, need to be considered.

Addendum to ‘A new taxonomy of the family Teloschistaceae’

Abstract: The recently invalidly published name Teloschistaceae subfam. Teloschistoideae Arup, Sochting & Froden subfam. nov. is validated here by providing a diagnosis for the taxon (ICN Art. 38).

Deyeuxia sorengii sp. nov. (Poaceae, Agrostidinae) from the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau

Abstract: Deyeuxia sorengii B. Paszko & W. L. Chen, a new species of Deyeuxia from the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau, China, is described and illustrated. The new species is morphologically similar to D. zangxiensis P. C. Kuo & S. L. Lu, but differs from it by having a well-developed and conspicuously hairy rachilla prolongation and a straight awn. Deyeuxia sorengii occurs in alpine meadows of central Xizang and central Qinghai. The first records of Deyeuxia zangxiensis are reported from western and eastern Xinjiang and northeastern Qinghai (China).

Ptilagrostis milleri comb. nov. (Poaceae: Stipeae)

Abstract: Based on a comparison of the macro-morphology and lemma micro-morphology, Stipa milleri Noltie is transferred to Ptilagrostis Griseb. as P. milleri (Noltie) M. Nobis & A. Nobis. Lemma epidermal patterns in the examined species are presented and discussed.

Campanula mugeana sp. nov. (Campanulaceae) from western Anatolia, Turkey

Abstract: Campanula mugeana Yildirim (Campanulaceae) is described as a new species. Diagnostic morphological characters, full descriptions and detailed illustrations of the new species are given. Micrographs of seeds and pollen were taken with scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Campanula mugeana is restricted to the province of Izmir in western Anatolia, Turkey. It belongs to the section Quinqueloculares, subgenus Campanula based on floral features. Although C. mugeana has no close relatives within sect. Quinqueloculares, it shows some morphological similarities with C. saxatilis and C. davisii.

Jacquemontia diamantinensis sp. nov. (Convolvulaceae) from the Chapada Diamantina, Brazil

Abstract: Jacquemontia diamantinensis Buril (Convolvulaceae) described here as a new species, is endemic to the Chapada Diamantina, in Bahia, Brazil. Illustrations and a table for comparing characters with related species are provided.

Crocus yakarianus sp. nov. from eastern Turkey

Abstract: taxa have been identifi ed from western Turkey, with a concentration in southwest Anatolia (Pasche 1993, Kerndorff 1993, Kerndorff and Pasche 1994, 1997, 2003, 2004, 2006, 2011, Mathew 1995, 2002, Pasche and Kerndorff 1999, u zba s i o g lu Y and ol rV2004, a Mathew et al. 2009, ol Er et al. 2010, 2011, in press, Ruk s ā ns 2010, 2012, Kerndorff et al. 2011). Without doubt, southwest Anatolia is the center of diversity for the genus

Effects of grazing and fertilization on the relationship between species abundance and functional traits in an alpine meadow community on the Tibetan Plateau

Abstract: Trait-based approaches can provide a useful tool for linking plant attributes to community structure and ecosystem function. Seed mass and plant height play important roles in the dynamics of plant communities, but few empirical community level studies have tested this, especially in stressful environments. The aim of the present study was to determine if there is a relationship between functional traits (seed mass and plant height) and changes in species relative abundance (SRA) in response to grazing and fertilization. We measured SRA and plant functional traits for 40 common species in a Tibetan Plateau alpine meadow. In the fertilized meadow, seed mass and plant height was significantly positively correlated with the relative abundance of the species. In the grazed meadow, these variables were significantly negatively correlated. Our results demonstrates that plant functional traits can be used to predict the change of SRA in plant community. Grazing promotes the dominance of small-seeded and short-stature species, and fertilization facilitates the occurrence of large-seeded and tall-stature species.

Identification and typification of Nepenthes blancoi, with N. abalata sp. nov. from the western Visayas, Philippines

Abstract: Nepenthes blancoi Bl. is neotypified on material conspecific with N. alata Blanco. Material previously associated with N. blancoi is described as N. abalata Jebb & Cheek sp. nov. This is a grassland species seemingly related to N. philippinensis Macfarl. but with similarities to the grassland species of Indo-China. Its conservation status is assessed as ‘Critically Endangered’ (CR).

Pradosia restingae sp. nov. from the Atlantic forest, Brazil

Abstract: Pradosia restingae Terra-Araujo, a new species of Sapotaceae (Chrysophylloideae) from the Brazilian Atlantic forest is described and illustrated. It is only known from the southern coast of the State Rio Grande do Norte and is likely restricted to the coastal sand dune ecosystem, locally known as the restinga forest, from which the epithet is derived. The species is naturally common, but due the low number of known subpopulations we assign P. restingae a preliminary conservation status of ‘Endangered’ (EN).

Didymocarpus dissectus sp. nov. (Gesneriaceae) from Fujian, eastern China

Abstract: A new species of Gesneriaceae, Didymocarpus dissectus Fang Wen, Y. L. Qiu & Y. G. Wei, from Fujian province, China, is described and illustrated. It is similar to D. heucherifolius in flower shape, but can be easily distinguished by leaf blade shape, split extent of calyx and equal calyx lobes, indumentum of corolla and number of staminodes.

Two new polypores Ceriporiopsis lavendula and Skeletocutis inflata spp. nov. from Guangdong province, China.

Abstract: Two new polypores (Ceriporiopsis lavendula B. K. Cui sp. nov. and Skeletocutis inflata B. K. Cui sp. nov.) are described from the Guangdong Province in southern China. Ceriporiopsis lavendula is characterized by having resupinate basidiocarps with lavender to grayish blue pore surface and very thin to almost absent subiculum, a monomitic hyphal system with clamped generative hyphae, and oblong-ellipsoid to ellipsoid basidiospores. Moreover, it grows on wood of Castanopsis exclusively. Skeletocutis inflata is characterized by having pileate basidiocarps, smaller pores (8–10 per mm), inflated and partly dissolved skeletal hyphae in KOH. In addition, its tramal skeletal hyphae are parallel along the tubes. Identification keys to species of Ceriporiopsis and Skeletocutis occurring in China are provided.