Festuca dertosensis (Poaceae), an overlooked fescue from the NE Iberian Peninsula

Samuel Pyke,Julià Molero,Teresa Garnatje,Llorenç Sáez

doi:10.3372/wi.46.46305

Abstract

A new species of Festuca L. (Poaceae) is described from the southern mountains of Tarragona (Catalonia, Spain). The new taxon belongs to the F. rubra aggregate, and superficially resembles plants of the F. trichophylla group. Its leaf anatomy, however, suggests a closer relationship with F. rubra and, in particular, F. heterophylla. Although sharing some features with F. paucispicula, a sympatric taxon, there are sufficient differences to warrant its separation from this local endemic. A comparative table and key are provided to assist in the identification of this overlooked fescue, and its relationship to other species present in the area is discussed, with special attention paid to species sharing a similar distribution. Mitosis studies have been carried out to determine the chromosome number, and the results suggest a decaploid, with a chromosome number of 2n = c. 70.

Highlights

The genus Festuca L. (Poaceae, Loliinae) is one of the most critical groups of the European flora
Festuca dertosensis has in the past apparently been taken for two, or probably three, related species
Maire” and “var. trichophylla Gaud. subvar. setacea St.-Y.” entries in his Tentamen of Old World fescues (St.-Yves 1927). These at present would correspond to F. iberica and F. trichophylla s.l., respectively

Summary

Introduction

The genus Festuca L. (Poaceae, Loliinae) is one of the most critical groups of the European flora. The high level of morphological plasticity within Festuca together with nomenclatural complexity makes its systematic interpretation difficult (Angelov & Ivanova 2012). The number of species fluctuates constantly according to the changing perspectives in the field of systematics. It can be said that Festuca comprises 400 – 450 species with a cosmopolitan distribution across the temperate regions and mountain areas in the tropics (Clayton & Renvoize 1986; Watson & Dallwitz 1992). The primary centre of diversification of the genus is found in the meadows, alpine grasslands and steppes of Eurasia and N Africa. About 100 taxa (more than 80 species) are found in the Iberian Peninsula, 38 of these taxa endemic to this area, and 13 or so constituting IberoMaghrebian endemics About 100 taxa (more than 80 species) are found in the Iberian Peninsula, 38 of these taxa endemic to this area, and 13 or so constituting IberoMaghrebian endemics (Cebolla & Rivas Ponce 2003; Devesa & al. 2013)

Methods

Results

Conclusion