Floristic Studies Research Articles

Naturalization of the Ornamental Plant Crocus tommasinianus Herb. (Iridaceae) in Forest Ecosystems: A Case Study from Poland

Highlights: Though not highly invasive, bulb and corm ornamental plants can escape cultivation and naturalize in new areas. Studying their naturalization is key to understanding their ecological impact and managing biodiversity. Objectives: This study aimed to document the first naturalization case of Crocus tommasinianus Herb. in Poland and assess the morphological variability of the naturalized population under different environmental conditions. Another objective was to identify diagnostic features in seed testa ornamentation to distinguish C. tommasinianus from related species (C. vernus (L.) Hill. and C. scepusiensis (Rehmann et Wol.) Borbás ex Kulcz.). Methods: The morphometric studies were performed within four subpopulations of C. tommasinianus differing in environmental conditions, determined with Ellenberg indices. Multivariate tests, ANOVA, and post-hoc tests were used to determine the morphometric diversity of specimens and to relate them to environmental factors. Seed micro-ornamentation was examined using a scanning electron microscope. Results: Light and temperature were negatively correlated, while moisture, soil pH, and nitrogen were positively correlated with many morphological traits. Plants spreading into forest ecosystems exhibited better-developed features (larger leaves and flowers) than those in former cultivation sites, indicating higher survival potential. The seed coat is papillate, with distinct differences in the shape, size, and secondary sculpture of the papillae compared to C. vernus and C. scepusiensis. Given that floristic studies often occur during the fruiting period of crocuses, testa ornamentation is crucial for identifying the studied species. Conclusions: The observed naturalization of C. tommasinianus demonstrates the high morphological plasticity of plants, which makes them capable of colonizing new areas, including forest habitats.

Estudio palinológico de las Licofitas (Lycopodiopsida) de las Sierras Pampeanas centrales de Argentina

Background and aims: The Sierras Pampeanas Centrales of Argentina constitute the fourth centre of diversity of lycophytes and ferns in the Cono Sur, where representatives of four families of lycophytes live: Huperziaceae, Lycopodiaceae, Isoetaceae and Selaginellaceae. The aim of this work is to provide data of the morphology of their spores observed with optical and scanning electron microscopes, as a contribution to the taxonomy and conservation. M&M: The materials were analysed without prior chemical treatment and photographic records were obtained with both observation equipments. Results: The morphological diagnostic features of the spores are presented. The Huperziaceae and Lycopodiaceae are isosporous with trilete spores. Huperziaceae presents foveolated or fossulated spores, while Lycopodiaceae spores are reticulate, scabrate and baculate. In Isoetes hieronymi (heterosporate), the microspores are monolete with echinate ornamentation, while the megaspores are trilete, with reticulate ornamentation. The Selaginellaceae, all heterosporate, produce trilete microspores and megaspores, both with varied ornamentation. Conclusions: Spore characteristics provide relevant information for regional floristic studies as well as for taxonomic assignments, both of extant flora and fossil records. Also, for studies of the composition of soil spore banks as a tool for the conservation of local floristic biodiversity.

Ethnobotanical, ethnopharmacological, socioeconomic and floristic studies of aromatic and medicinal plants from Boulemane region in Morocco

These studies were conducted to uncover the potential and traditional knowledge of aromatic and medicinal plants (AMP) in the Boulemane province of the Middle Atlas, an area previously unexplored. The objectives were to inventory and identify AMP used in the region’s traditional medicine, gather extensive information from locals and professionals on their usage and exploitation, and identify the most promising species for further studies, to be highlighted in future publications. The floristic study enabled the identification of 71 families out of 155 existing in Morocco, comprising 313 genera and 618 species and subspecies, which represent 11% of the global Moroccan floristic richness. Additionally, 84 taxa from 20 families are endemic with 78% being exclusive to Morocco. The ethnopharmacological study revealed that 88.47% of the informants use AMP for therapeutic purposes in 58.21% of the cases. A catalog of traditional practices was compiled, documenting 79 species across 38 families. Rosemary, sagebrush, pennyroyal, thyme, berber cedar, lavender sage, and clubroot were the most frequently cited species, mainly used to treat stomach and respiratory problems. However, only 17.6% of the population exploits this wealth through the creation of cooperatives and/or associations. This study assessed the role of AMP in fostering sustainable development in the region. The evaluation was based on a series of studies, with particular emphasis on the ethnopharmacological aspect. The latter has facilitated the promotion of awareness of sustainable usage practices and the training of professionals to implement these practices while ensuring the conservation of botanical resources against over-exploitation.

Eriosema magnum (Leguminosae), a new species from cerrado region of Goiás, Brazil

During a floristic study in Legado Verdes Cerrado region in Goiás state (Niquelândia municipality), Brazil, a new species of Eriosema genus was discovered. Eriosema magnum is here described and illustrated and its morphological similarities with its closest relatives are presented. The geographical distribution, conservation status, and information about flowering and fruiting are provided. Additionally, a dichotomous key to the taxa of Eriosema that occurs in the Legado Verdes do Cerrado was done.

Floristic Studies in Indian Universities

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A Resume of Botanical Explorations and Floristic Studies in the Central Indian State of Madhya Pradesh

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Floristic Studies on the Lower Ganga Plain of the State of West Bengal: Present Status and Future Strategies

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A Review on the Floristic Studies in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands up to 1970

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A Perspective on the Floristic Studies in the South-Eastern Corner of Madhya Pradesh and Future Needs

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Floristic Studies in Coimbatore City and its Environs

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Floristic Studies in India-Present Status and Future Strategies with Special Reference to Bihar

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Floristic Studies in Trichur District, Kerala

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Floristic Studies in North-Eastern India (Old Assam Region)

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Floristic Studies in Idukki District, Kerala

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Floristic Studies in Karnataka-Past, Present and Future

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Floristic Studies in Trivandrum District, Kerala

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Floristic Studies in North-Western India-Present Status and Future Strategy

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Status of Floristic Studies in Arunachal Pradesh

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Status of Floristic Studies in India-With Special Reference to Southern Circle of Botanical Survey of India

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Future of Floristic Studies and Preservation and Conservation Needs of Rare, Endangered and Vanishing Plants of India

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