Nomenclatural notes on four Linnaean names in Arenaria (Caryophyllaceae)

Abstract

AbstractThe Linnaean names Arenaria laricifolia, Ar. liniflora, Ar. mucronata, and Ar. striata (Caryophyllaceae) are investigated. Specimens from the Linnaean Herbarium (LINN) are designated as lectotypes of Ar. laricifolia and Ar. liniflora, a specimen from UPS is designated as lectotype for Ar. striata, and an illustration by Haller is designated as lectotype for Ar. mucronata. These names are currently recognized under Minuartia s.l. and can be referred to Cherleria laricifolia comb.nov.s.str. (≡ Ar. laricifolia; Ar. liniflora and Ar. striata being later heterotypic synonyms) or M. mucronata (= Ar. mucronata). Two names (Stellaria rubra, Ar. fastigiata) are proposed as new heterotypic synonyms of M. mucronata (Ar. fastigiata is lectotypified on a Smith's illustration). It is also noted that "Arenaria cerastoides L." is a nomen nudum and so not validly published under Art. 38.1 of the ICN; its intended identity is, therefore, irrelevant. According to the current concept in Minuartia, M. laricifolia should be treated under the genus Cherleria and, lacking a nomenclatural transfer, I here propose three new combinations each for one of the three subspecies currently recognized: C. laricifolia subsp. laricifolia comb. nov., C. laricifolia subsp. kitaibelii comb. nov. and C. laricifolia subsp. ophiolitica comb. nov.