Studies on Potheae (Araceae) of Borneo II: Pedicellarum M.Hotta subsumed into Pothos L., and recognition of three new species

Jyloerica Joling,Joan T. Pereira,Sin Yeng Wong,Alviana Damit,Alistair Hay,Peter C. Boyce

doi:10.36253/jopt-7944

Abstract

Pedicellarum is subsumed into Pothos as Pothos paiei. Four species, three taxonomically novel (Pothos degenerans, ecclesiae and P. fractiflexus) and one pre-existing (Pothos oliganthus) are discussed. The reproductive structures are reinterpreted and floral terminology used in this paper is in line with paving the way to interpreting the ‘inflorescence’ of Pothos, and indeed of all other aroids, as a unique array of structures that are neither flowers nor inflorescences as defined by current prevailing orthodoxy, but something of both.

Highlights

Pedicellarum paiei M.Hotta (Hotta 1976) is the sole described species of a genus of nomadic vines restricted to upper hill ridgetop kerangas in SW Sarawak
The earlier comparisons were based upon examination of material (P.J.Martin & O.Ismawi S 36660) mis-determined as Pedicellarum and an undescribed species of Pothos
Studies on Potheae (Araceae) of Borneo II: Pedicellarum M.Hotta subsumed into Pothos L., and recognition of three new species 91 vidual florets is prejudiced towards the conventional interpretation of the bloom as an inflorescence, despite the absence of subtending bracts and the phenological behaviour of the florets being subordinate to that of the spadix

Summary

Introduction

Pedicellarum paiei M.Hotta (Hotta 1976) is the sole described species of a genus of nomadic vines restricted to upper hill ridgetop kerangas in SW Sarawak. Agreeing with Pedicellarum paiei in having stipitate florets on a characteristically zig-zagging axis, lack the characteristic conspicuous floral receptacle, and have the fused tepals forming a shallow saucer; the leaf blades are proportionately narrower and thicker textured than in P. paiei, and more or less straight, lacking the characteristic narrowed falcate terminus, while the mid-rib is abaxially much more pronounced, and drying much paler than the surrounding tissues.

Results

Conclusion