Two new Marquesan species of the southeastern Polynesian genus Oparanthus (Asteraceae, Coreopsidinae)
2011
Two New Species of Oparanthus from the Marquesas Islands
publication
Evidence: high
Author Information
Author(s): Warren L. Wagner, David H. Lorence
Primary Institution: National Tropical Botanical Garden
Conclusion
Two new species of the genus Oparanthus were discovered and are critically endangered.
Supporting Evidence
- Both new species are critically endangered due to their limited populations and habitat decline.
- Oparanthus woodii is known from a single population on Nuku Hiva.
- Oparanthus tiva is known only from Tahuata.
- Domatia, which are rare in Asteraceae, are present in both new species.
Takeaway
Scientists found two new types of plants called Oparanthus in the Marquesas Islands, and they are very rare and at risk of disappearing.
Methodology
Measurements were taken from dried herbarium specimens and supplemented with information from preserved flowers and field notes.
Limitations
The species are known from very few collections, indicating their rarity.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website