New Zealand Journal of Botany abstract
Coprosma pedicellata (Rubiaceae), a new species from New Zealand
B. P. J. MOLLOY
Research Associate
Landcare Research
P.O. Box 69
Lincoln, 8152 New Zealand
P. J. DE LANGE
Science & Research Unit
Department of Conservation
Private Bag 68908
Newton
Auckland, New Zealand
B. D. CLARKSON
Landcare Research
Private Bag 3127
Hamilton, New Zealand
Abstract A new, diploid species of
Coprosma,
C.
pedicellata (2
n = 44) is described and illustrated. It has a close
morphological affinity with the northern New Zealand hexaploid species
C.
parviflora (2
n = 132), which may be an ancient amphidiploid
derivative.
C. pedicellata is readily identified by its distinctive
growth habit, habitat, and pendant pedicellate violet drupes. It is known from
a few disjunct localities along the foothills of eastern New Zealand where it
is restricted to forest or forest margins, usually on moderately fertile soils
with impeded drainage, in overflow and flood channels, and alongside small
streams. It shares these cool winter-wet/warm summer-dry habitats with a select
group of woody species, including other rare small-leaved divaricate shrubs and
dwarf mistletoes.
C. pedicellata is considered to be a restricted taxon
in need of active conservation management over the greater part of its present
natural range.
Keywords Rubiaceae; Coprosma; C. parviflora;
C. pedicellata; new species; taxonomy; conservation; New Zealand flora
B98050
Received 26 August 1998; accepted 11 February 1999
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