Latest news
Published: February 2022
Description of Cynorkis mammuthus Hermans & P.J.Cribb, Curtis’s Botanical Magazine.
Abstract:
Cynorkis mammuthus Hermans & P.J.Cribb from Madagascar was formally described in 2017 from an unidentified herbarium specimen and was thought to be extinct until it was recently found flourishing in northern Madagascar. It is illustrated here and a full description, history and conservation assessment are provided. It is compared with similar species from the region, especially Cynorkis elephantina. By Johan Hermans, Landy Rajaovelona, Anton Sieder, Margareta Pertl and Andrew Brown.
Published: 24. August 2021
Angraecum inflatum, a new species in Angraecinae (Orchidaceae) from Madagascar. Kew Bulletin
Abstract:
A new species from Madagascar, Angraecum inflatum Hermans, is described and illustrated for the first time. It is compared with similar species from section Lemurangis. A preliminary conservation assessment is provided. By Johan Hermans, Landy Rajaovelona & Phillip Cribb.
Published: 11. August 2021
Bulbophyllum lanterna, a new species in Dendrobiinae (Orchidaceae) from Madagascar. Kew Bulletin
Abstract:
A new species from Madagascar, Bulbophyllum lanterna Hermans, is described and illustrated. It is compared with similar species from section Lichenophylax. A preliminary conservation assessment is provided. By Johan Hermans, Landy Rajaovelona & Phillip Cribb.
Published: April 2021
Two new names in Holothrix (Orchideae, Orchidaceae). Phytotaxa 494(2):250-250
Abstract:
Le Péchon et al. (2019) found that Bartholina Brown in Aiton (1813: 194) is deeply embedded in Holothrix Richard in Lindley (1835: 257). Holothrix includes around 46 species with the highest diversity in southern and eastern Africa, whereas Bartholina includes only two species endemic to the Greater Cape Floristic Region (WCSP, 2021). Bartholina predates Holothrix, and to preserve nomenclatural stability, a proposal for conservation has been published (Le Pechon & Bytebier, 2019), and so we would like to make the new names in Holothrix available. By Benny Bytebier, Timothée Le Péchon.
Published: 29. April 2021
Description of Cynorkis elephantina Hermans, Andriant. & Sieder, Curtis’s Botanical Magazine.
Abstract:
Cynorkis elephantina Hermans, Andriant. & Sieder from Madagascar was formally described in 2017. It is illustrated here and a full description, history and conservation assessment are provided. It is compared with similar species from the region, especially Cynorkis mammuthus Hermans & P.J. Cribb. By Johan Hermans, Landy Rajaovelona, Anton Sieder.
Published: April 2021
A new orchid from Madagscar, Angraecum idea. Lindleyana
Abstract:
A new orchid species from Madagascar, Angraecum idae, in section Humblotiangraecum, is described and illustrated for the first time. It is compared with similar species from the area. A preliminary conservation assessment is provided. By Hermans, Sieder, Rajaoyelona and Andriantiana
Published: March 2021
Description of Cynorkis christae Hermans, Andriant. & Sieder, Curtis’s Botanical Magazine.
Abstract:
Cynorkis christae Hermans, Andriant. & Sieder, from Madagascar was first described a few years ago; it has the largest flowers in the genus. It is compared with similar species from the region; a full description, history, conservation assessment and detailed illustrations are provided. By Johan Hermans, Landy Rita Rajaovelona and Anton Sieder.
Published: 17. March 2021
Expansion of the orchid genus Eulophia (Eulophiinae; Epidendroideae) to include Acrolophia, Cymbidiella, Eulophiella, Geodorum, Oeceoclades and Paralophia. Phytotaxa 472 (2): 47–56.
Abstract:
Eulophia (Eulophiinae; Epidendroideae) has been found in molecular phylogenetic studies to be non-monophyletic. Here, we propose to combine it with Acrolophia, Cymbidiella, Eulophiella, Geodorum, Oeceoclades and Paralophia and discuss the characters that have been used previously to discriminate among these genera, demonstrating that none of them is without exceptions. Given the incongruence found in the molecular phylogenetic studies between plastid and nuclear results, a broader circumscription of Eulophia is more likely to be stable. In total, 35 new combinations/names are required for the expansion of Eulophia to include these other genera. By Mark Chase, M.W., André Schuiteman & Pankaj Kumar.
Published: 15. March 2021
New species in Orchidaceae from Madagascar. Kew Bulletin.
Abstract:
Five new species from Madagascar, Aerangis bovicornu (Vandeae: Angraecinae), Angraecopsis lemurelloides (Vandeae: Angraecinae), Didymoplexis stella-silvae (Gastrodieae), Habenaria crocodilium (Orchideae: Orchidinae) and Polystachya siederi (Vandeae: Polystachinae) are described and illustrated. A short summary of endemism and the history of description of orchids of Madagascar are given. By Johan Hermans, Landy Rajaovelona & Phillip Cribb
Published: 15. March 2021
New species and nomenclatural changes in Bulbophyllum (Orchidaceae) from Madagascar Kew Bulletin 2021.
Abstract:
Six new species: Bulbophyllum caniceps, B. cochinealloides, B. fierenanaense, B. geminiflorum, B. oenanthum and B. rudolphus are described for the first time. The identity and nomenclature of Bulbophyllum cylindrocarpum is discussed and its var. andringitrense is recognised at species rank as B. jeanbosseri. Bulbophyllum aubrevillei and B. kie-neri are compared with the latter becoming a synonym. The history and identities of Bulbophyllum pentastichum vs B. quadrifarium are clarified and the necessary taxonomic changes and type selections are made. A new sect. Inversiflora is formally described. By Johan Hermans, Alexander Gamisch, Landy Rajaovelona, Gunter A. Fischer, Phillip Cribb, Anton Sieder & Jacky Andriantiana.
Published: 2021
Taxonomic description and pollination ecology of Cyrtorchis okuensis (Orchidaceae, Angraecinae), a new species endemic to the Cameroon Volcanic Line. Plant Ecology and Evolution 154 (3): 483-496.
Abstract:
A recent taxonomic and molecular study of the genus Cyrtorchis revealed three new species. Here, we describe one of these new species, endemic to the Cameroon Volcanic Line (CVL), and compare it to its closest relatives. Its conservation status is provided along with detailed information on its ecology and reproductive biology. By Laura N. Azandi, Tariq Stévart, Bonaventure Sonké, Murielle Simo-Droissart, Tania D’haijère & Vincent Droissart.
Published: December 2020
New species and nomenclatural changes in Cynorkis (Orchidaceae) from Madagascar, the Comoros and the Mascarenes, Kew Bulletin 75(4)
Abstract:
Four new species, Cynorkis kiehnii, C. marianneae, C. marmorata and C. murex, are described for the first time. Cynorkis frappieri and C. raymondiana are compared, with the latter reduced to a synonym of the former . Cynorkis gaesiformis, C. galeata, C. nutans and C. stenoglossa are compared and considered one variable species, with the name C. nutans having priority. Additional information is provided about C. mammuthus following the discovery of living material in N Madagascar. By Johan Hermans, Landy Rita Rajaovelona, Phillip Cribb and Jean-Michel Hervouet.
Published 23. November 2020
Expansion of Calanthe to include the species of Cephalantheropsis, Gastrorchis and Phaius (Collabieae; Orchidaceae). Phytotaxa. Vol. 472 No. 2.
Abstract:
To address the polyphyly of Phaius and Calanthe in recent molecular studies, we recommend the merger of these genera along with Cephalantheropsis and Gastrorchis, which are embedded among the first two genera. Some authors have instead proposed to segregate new genera from both Phaius and Calanthe, but this results in generic concepts for which there are no reasonable morphological differences. It is in the interest of nomenclatural stability to combine these genera, so we here make the necessary combinations and provide new names to enable users to employ this broadened generic concept of Calanthe. By Mark W. Chase, Maarten J. M. Christenhus & André Schuiteman.
Published: 28. September 2020
Bulbophyllum mascarenense Pailler and Baider sp nov.: a new endemic orchid species from the Mascarenes. Botany Letters Volume 167, 2020 - Issue 4.
Abstract:
Here we describe Bulbophyllum mascarenense sp. nov., a new endemic species from the Mascarenes, and assess its conservation status. This taxon has previously been confused with B. nutans var. nutans and has also been erroneously identified in the Mascarenes as B. minutum auct. non Thouars, the latter a Malagasy endemic. Bulbophyllum mascarenense is known from tropical humid native vegetation between 400 and 1200 m elevation, being abundant on the island of Réunion, but less so on Mauritius. Using the Red List Categories and Criteria of the International Union for Conservation of Nature, this new species should be considered as “Least Concern”. By Thierry Pailler and Cláudia Baider.
Published: 2. September 2020.
A taxonomic revision of Stenoglottis (Orchideae, Orchidoideae, Orchidaceae),Phytotaxa 456 (3): 219–243
Abstract:
Based on a published morphological and phylogenetic analysis, species delimitation in Stenoglottis is here revised, and five species (six taxa) are now recognized: S. fimbriata (with two varieties), S. longifolia, S. inandensis, S. woodii, and S. macloughlinii. Stenoglottis fimbriata subsp. saxicola and S. zambesiaca are synonymised here with S. fimbriata, S. modesta is reduced in rank to S. fimbriata var. modesta and S. molweniensis is synonymised with S. longifolia. The three spurred species, S. inandensis, S. woodii and S. macloughlinii, are retained. We include revised descriptions, diagnoses and a morphological key, in which characteristics of the floral spurs, labella, leaves, bracts, and auricles contribute most clearly to distinguishing the taxa. Distributions maps and photos showing important diagnostic characters and morphological variation are also presented. By Dean P. Phillips & Benny Bytebier
Published: 12. May 2020
Revision of Angraecum sect. Perrierangraecum (Orchidaceae; Epidendroideae; Vandeae) for the Mascarenes, with a description of a new endemic species for Mauritius. Phytotaxa 442 (3): 183-195
Abstract:
While revising the genus Angraecum (Orchidaceae) for the Mascarenes, a new taxon endemic to Mauritius was identified and it is here described as Angraecum baiderae. More than 300 Angraecum specimens, including types, collected in the Mascarenes and Madagascar, and available at DBEV, G, K, KM, L, MARS, MAU, MO, P, REU, SEY, TEF, and TAN were studied to confirm the taxonomic status of this new taxon. Its conservation status was assessed as Endangered. Furthermore, this paper presents detailed descriptions, conservation status, and a key to all species of Angraecum sect. Perrierangraecum occurring in the Mascarenes. By Thierry Pailler, Simon Verlynde, Francois Benjamin Vincent Florens, Benny Bytebier.
Published: Nummer 02, 2020 Die Orchidee Vol. 6
Polystachya kathrinae and Polystachya maculata ssp. muloloensis – Two New Epiphytic Orchids from Kahuzi-Biéga National Park, Democratic Re public of the Congo, and its Surroundings. Die Orchidee.
Abstract:
Polystachya kathrinae and Polystachya maculata ssp. muloloensis, two new epiphytic orchids from Kahuzi-Biega National Park and its surroundings in the Eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo are described. Polystachya kathrinae belongs to the section Cultriformes Kraenzl. and is morphologically close to Polytachya poikilantha and the related taxa, but differs distinctly in the yellow-greenish flowers with white lip tinged pink and yellow spot. Polystachya maculata ssp. muloloensis resembles Polystachya maculata ssp. maculata and belongs also to the section Cultriformes Kraenzl. It differs in the yellow to yellowish-cream flowers, the yellow lip with purple spots only on adaxial side, the base of the lip with short clavate hairs and rounded-globose callus and the leaf ± tapering into pseudobulb and only weakly cordate at base. By Eberhard Fischer, Dorothee Kilmann, Bonny Dumbo und Landry Dumbo Isonga.
Published August 2019
Abstract:
Cynorkis × ranaivosonii from the highlands of Madagascar is described for the first time as a natural hybrid between Cynorkis speciosa and Cynorkis uniflora and it is compared with the parents. By Landy Rita Rajaovelona, Royal Botanic Gardens Kew, Madagascar. Lindleyana
Published: 28. May 2019
A new combination in Dolabrifolia (Angraecinae, Orchidaceae). Phytotaxa Vol. 404 No. 7: 28
Abstract:
Species in Angraecum sect. Dolabrifolia (Pfitzer 1889: 216) Garay (1973: 499) were assigned to several genera until Garay (1973) finally transferred the type species, A. distichum (Lindley 1836: t. 1781), along with A. podochiloides Schlechter (1906: 162) and A. aporoides Summerhayes (1964: 560) to Angraecum Bory (1804: 359) (see Simo-Droissart et al. 2016a). Later, Angraecum bancoense Burg in Arends et al. (1980: 26) and A. poppendickianum Szlachetko & Olszewski (2001: 884) were described and included in this section. According to Garay (1973), Angraecum sect. Dolabrifolia is characterized by very short, fleshy, laterally compressed and densely imbricate leaves, with a groove on the upper surface; the lateral compression being a unique feature within the genus. Based on this unique morphological character, Szlachetko and Romowicz (2007) raised the section to the rank of genus, Dolabrifolia (Pfitz.) Szlachetko & Romowicz (2007: 54) and proposed five new combinations, namely Dolabrifolia disticha (Lindl.) Szlachetko & Romowicz (2007: 54), D. aporoides (Summerh.) Szlachetko & Romowicz (2007: 54), D. bancoensis (Burg) Szlachetko & Romowicz (2007: 54), D. podochiloides (Schltr.) Szlachetko & Romowicz (2007: 54) and D. poppendickiana (Szlach. & Olszewski) Szlachetko & Romowicz (2007: 54). The taxonomic decision of Szlachetko and Romowicz (2007) was followed by Szlachetko et al. (2013), who also raised nine other Angraecum sections to the generic rank. By Murielle Simo-Droissart and Tariq Stévart.
Published: 24. October 2018
A new genus of angraecoid orchids (Orchidaceae: Angraecinae) with highly distinctive pollinaria morphology, including three new species from tropical West and Central Africa. Phytotaxa Vol. 373 No. 2.
Abstract:
A recent large phylogenetic tree for the angraecoid orchids has shown that the Afrotropical genus Diaphananthe is polyphyletic with a small group of four species sister to Aerangis and Eurychone. These species have diagnostic morphological features different from any other angraecoids, notably an erose to fringed surface of the stipes and a calceiform viscidium. Diaphananthe quintasii, which has been regarded as conspecific with D. rohrii, is reinstated as a valid species and lectotypified, and Diaphananthe alfredii and Rhipidoglossum magnicalcar are put in synonymy under D. quintasii. To accommodate this group of species, along with three new taxa from West and Central Africa, a new genus named Kylicanthe is here described. Four new combinations are thus proposed, and K. bueae is chosen as the type species of the new genus and neotypified. Additionally, K. arcuata, K. cornuata, and K. perezverae are described as new species. An identification key for Kylicanthe and allied genera is presented, as well as one for the seven species in the genus. Notes on ecology and distribution in addition to a preliminary assessment of conservation status following the IUCN Red List are also provided. By Pascal Descourvières , João N. M. Farminhão , Vincent Droissart , Jean-Yves Dubuisson , Murielle Simo-Droissart and Tariq Stévart.
Published: 15. May 2018
A revised concept of Rhipidoglossum (Angraecinae, Orchidaceae). Phytotaxa Vol. 349 No. 3:
Abstract:
Following the production of a near-comprehensive generic phylogenetic analysis of African angraecoid orchids, paraphyly of the genus Rhipidoglossum relative to Cribbia, Margelliantha and Rhaesteria was in need of being resolved by integrating morphological observations into this newly available molecular framework. Accordingly, we critically revised the diagnostic traits of each genus by examining about 700 herbarium specimens ascribable to 50 species of Rhipidoglossum and its satellite genera. Cribbia, Margelliantha and Rhaesteria are here lumped with Rhipidoglossum, along with Angraecopsis pusilla and Diaphananthe millarii. The presence of pollinaria with two separate disk-shaped viscidia, a trilobed, non-papillate rostellum with midlobe more prominent than lateral lobes and an undivided lip are diagnostic of this more inclusive concept of Rhipidoglossum. In line with this new taxonomic arrangement, 11 new combinations in Rhipidoglossum are made, and Margelliantha lebelii is moved to Diaphananthe and first reported for Uganda. By João N. M. Farminhão, Pierre Meerts, Pascal Descourvières, Vincent Droissart, Murielle Simo-Droissart and Tariq Stévart.
Published 13. April 2018
Afropectinariella (Vandeae, Orchidaceae), a new genus of the Angraecum alliance. PhytoKeys 96: 79–86 (2018
Abstract:
A recent phylogenetic study showed that species assigned to the newly recognised genus PectinariellaSzlach., Mytnik & Grochocka (previously treated as Angraecum Bory sect. Pectinaria Benth.) are poly phyletic, comprising a clade with species primarily in Madagascar and the Western Indian Ocean islands (including the type) and another non-sister clade whose members occur in continental Africa and the Gulf of Guinea islands. In order to render Pectinariella monophyletic, the five continental African species must therefore be removed. A new genus, Afropectinariella M.Simo & Stévart, is described and the following combinations are made: Afropectinariella atlantica (Stévart & Droissart) M.Simo & Stévart, Afropectinariella doratophylla (Summerh.) M.Simo & Stévart, Afropectinariella gabonensis (Summerh.) M.Simo & Stévart, Afropectinariella pungens (Schltr.) M.Simo & Stévart and Afropectinariella subulata(Lindl.) M.Simo & Stévart. By Murielle Simo-Droissart, Bonaventure Sonké Vincent Droissart, Tariq Stévart.
Published: October 2017
New species and nomenclatural changes in Cynorkis (Orchidaceae: Orchidoideae) from Madagascar and the Mascarenes, Kew Bulletin 72(3).
Abstract:
Ten new species, Cynorkis aconitiflora, C. christae, C. elephantina, C. jackyi, C. lentiginosa, C. mammuthus, C. mangabensis, C. sanguinolenta, C. siederi and C. syringescens, are described for the first time. The identity of C. elegans is clarified. The status of Arnottia and Physoceras are discussed and both subsumed into Cynorkis, with the necessary taxonomic changes made. By Johan Hermans, Jacky L. Andriantiana, Anton Sieder, Michael Kiehn, Phillip Cribb, Landy Rajavelona & Lauren M. Gardiner.
Published: 29. September 2017
Taxonomy of Atlantic Central African orchids, 6: three new species of Angraecum sect. Afrangraecum (Orchidaceae, Angraecinae) from Gabon and São Tomé. Phytotaxa Vol. 323 No. 2.
Abstract:
Three new species of Angraecum sect. Afrangraecum from Central Africa are here described and illustrated. They are morphologically similar to A. affine and A. cribbianum. Two of them, A. gereauanum and A. geerinckianum, are only known from Massif du Chaillu in Gabon and appear to be closely related based on morphological and preliminary molecular evidence. The third species, A. oliveirae, is endemic to São Tomé. A dichotomous key to all fourteen species of A. sect. Afrangraecum and a table with the distinguishing characters of the three new species and closely allied taxa are provided. A preliminary assessment of the conservation status of the new species is also presented, using the IUCN Red List categories and criteria. By Vladimir Ječmenica, Vincent Droissart, Eric Akouangou, Christelle Nyangala, Bakita Bakita, Jean Philippe Biteau and Tariq Stévart.
Published: October 2016
A taxonomic revision of Angraecum section Dolabrifolia (Orchidaceae, Angraecinae), with the description of a new species from Gabon. Phytotaxa 280(2):81.
Abstract:
Despite a paucity of material available from continental Africa, previous morphological and molecular phylogenetic studies have suggested that Angraecum, the largest genus of the angraecoid orchids, is polyphyletic. A recent study based on broad sampling from the region confirmed the monophyly of section Dolabrifolia and a clear delimitation of four of its five members, one of which represents a new species. Based on these results, a comprehensive taxonomic revision of Angraecum sect. Dolabrifolia is presented here. It includes an identification key and a detailed description of each species, along with color photographs, distribution maps, information on habitat and phenology, and a preliminary risk of extinction assessment according to the IUCN Red List categories and criteria. Species richness in the section is highest in Atlantic Central Africa and around the Albertine Rift. The new species, A. biteaui, is described and illustrated with line drawings. It most closely resembles A. aporoides in general aspect but differs in both foliar and floral characters, and is only known from lowland forests in Gabon. By Murielle Simo-Droissart, Bonaventure Sonké and Vincent Droissart.
Published: 7. July 2016
Synoptic revision of the genus Cyrtorchis Schltr. (Angraecinae, Orchidaceae) in Central Africa, with the description of a new species restricted to submontane vegetation. Phytotaxa 267: 165−186.
Abstract:
As a preliminary step to the taxonomic revision of the genus Cyrtorchis, a synoptic revision of the species occurring in Central Africa was undertaken. Based on a detailed examination of 1,039 herbarium specimens, including nomenclatural types, we have recognized 14 species in Central Africa (one of which is divided into two subspecies), including one new species that the study brought to light, described here as Cyrtorchis submontana. The new species closely resembles C. guillaumetii and C. brownii in general aspect, but differs from them in having thinner, small elliptic leaves and shorter, fewer-flowered, more lax inflorescences with shorter bracts. The species is restricted to submontane vegetation of Central Africa and is assessed as Endangered following the IUCN Red List Categories and Criteria. Cyrtorchis latibracteata and C. subcylindrifolia are lectotypified, and the latter is placed as a synonym under C. henriquesiana. Many new records are reported, and for each taxon the distribution, habitat and ecology are given. An identification key for the Central African taxa is also provided. By Azandi, L., Stévart, T., Sonké, B., Simo-Droissart, M., Avana, M.-L. & Droissart, V.
Published: 13. May 2016
Polystachya orophila (Orchidaceae, Polystachynae), a new species from tropical West Africa, and clarification on the nomenclature and taxonomy of P. microbambusa. Phytotaxa Vol. 260 No. 3.
Abstract:
Polystachya orophila, a new species of Orchidaceae, is described based on specimens collected during the baseline study of the Guinean Nimba Mountains for the environmental impact assessment for a proposed mining project. While material belonging to this species was mentioned as early as 1920 by Chevalier, it has historically been confused with P. microbambusa, from which it differs by its typically Polystachya-like clustered pseudobulbs, placing it in P. sect. Polystachya, whereas P. microbambusa has pseudobulbs successively growing on top of one another, forming developed and persistent stems, and is the sole representative of P. sect. Dimorphocaules. The complex taxonomic and nomenclatural history of P. microbambusa is also clarified. For both taxa we provide a morphological description as well as information on distribution, habitat, and phenology, an IUCN conservation status assessment using the Red List criteria, and a distribution map, along with a dichotomous key that also includes the most similar members of P. sect. Polystachya. By Ehoarn Bidault, Porter P. Lowry and Tariq Stévart.
Published: 25. February 2016
Taxonomy of Atlantic Central African orchids 5. A new species of Angraecum sect. Conchoglossum (Orchidaceae, Angraecinae) from Gabon and Cameroon. PhytoKeys 61: 61−71.
Abstract:
Recent field inventories and taxonomic research in Central Africa have resulted in the discovery of many new orchid species. Five specimens of an apparently new Angraecum species were collected in Gabon and Cameroon. They stand out for their hanging habit and short zig-zag stem. Morphology of leaves and habit is somewhat comparable to A. cultriforme and A. stolzii, two species from East Africa. Flowers of the novelty share the general morphology of A. pyriforme from which the new species is distinguished by being smaller and with a different lip-spur ratio. Here we show that these five specimens represent a new species, described here as Angraecum lanceolatum. The distinguishing traits include thin lanceolate leaves, convolute distally, with a rhombic lip shape. Dichotomous key to four Central African species of sect. Conchoglossum and a table of the diagnostic characters of the seven related Continental African Angraecum taxa are included here. A preliminary assessment of the conservation status of A. lanceolatum is provided, using the IUCN Red List Categories and Criteria. By Ječmenica, V., Droissart, V., Noret, N. & Stévart, T.
Published: 4. June 2015
Taxonomy of Atlantic Central African orchids 4. A new species of Tridactyle (Vandeae, Epidendroideae, Orchidaceae) from Gabon and Equatorial Guinea. Phytotaxa Vol. 212 No. 2.
Abstract:
Nine plants specimens of an apparently new Tridactyle species were collected in Gabon and Equatorial Guinea. They have an erect habit and a particular leaf shape which makes the species unique in the genus. The flowers and inflorescences share the general morphology of Tridactyle tridactylites, one of the most frequently collected species of Tridactyle in Central Africa. Four other Tridactyle taxa possess a 3 to 6 cm long inflorescence and a labellum with entire side lobes, and one species, Tridactyle stevartiana, has leaves of similar width and length. We here show that these new 9 specimens represent a new species, described as Tridactyle minutifolia. The diagnostic traits include linear thin leaves, and erect habit. Interestingly, many specimens of Tridactyle minutifolia lack spur; this phenomenon is sometimes found in orchids growing in an environment where their pollinators are absent. A table of the diagnostic characters of the six Continental African Tridactyle taxa considered here is included. A preliminary assessment of the conservation status of T. minutifolia, using the IUCN Red List Categories and Criteria is provided. By Tania D'haijère, Sophie Leguil , Pierre Meerts and Tariq Stévart.
Published: 23. Mar. 2015
Disa staerkeriana (Orchidaceae): a new species from Mpumalanga, South Africa. Phytotaxa 203 (2): 192–198.
Abstract
A new orchid species, Disa staerkeriana is described from the Hartebeesvlakte in the Mpumalanga Province of South Africa. It is a member of Disa section Stenocarpa and is affiliated to D. amoena and D. montana. An updated artificial key to Disa section Stenocarpa is provided. By Douglas Mcmurtry & Benny Bytebier.
Published: 22. August 2014
Taxonomy of Atlantic Central African orchids 3. A new species of Bulbophyllum Thouars (Orchidaceae) from the Monts de Cristal, Gabon. Phytotaxa Vol. 177 No. 1
Abstract:
Two specimens of an apparently new Bulbophylum species were found in the Monts de Cristal, Gabon. They have a unique leaf shape among the species of this genus in Continental Africa. The flower shares the general morphology of Bulbophyllum saltatorium, one of the most common members of Bulbophyllum in Central Africa. Eight other taxa of the Continental African Bulbophyllum possess unifoliate pseudobulbs and long hairs on the lip. Comparison with them indicates that the new collections from Gabon represent a distinctive species, not yet known in the genus. We describe it here as Bulbophyllum pauwelsianum. The distinguishing features of the species include its leaves, which are pendant, coriaceous, linear, semiterete and v-shaped in transverse section, and its sepals, which possess relatively long hairs on their margins. A table of the taxonomic treatments of the nine Continental African Bulbophyllum taxa considered here is included. A taxonomic key and a table of the diagnostic characters of these nine taxa are given to facilitate identification. The new species is restricted to lowland forests of the Monts de Cristal in Gabon. A preliminary assessment of the conservation status, using the IUCN Red List Categories and Criteria is provided. By Tariq Stévart, Jean Philippe Biteau, Valérie Cawoy and Vincent Droissart.
Published: 1. July 2014
Taxonomic revision of the continental African species of Angraecum section Pectinaria (Orchidaceae). Systematic Botany 39: 725–739.
Abstract:
Angraecum, the largest genus of the angraecoid orchids, has long been regarded as a natural group possessing a common overall floral morphology, although recent molecular studies have called into question its monophyly. No recent taxonomic revision is available for the genus or its sections, and previous studies (whether based on morphology or DNA sequences) have suffered from a paucity of material from continental Africa. An earlier study suggested that the section Pectinaria was polyphyletic, with one clade, containing the type species, centered in Madagascar and the other in continental Africa. Our recent morphometric and molecular study confirmed the polyphyly of this section, clarified the circumscription of its continental African species, and assessed their monophyly. Here we present a comprehensive taxonomic revision of the five continental African members of Angraecum section Pectinaria, including an identification key, distribution maps, and an assessment of their conservation status (two are threatened, one could become threatened in the near future, and two do not meet the criteria for threatened status). Species richness is highest in Atlantic Central Africa, and A. gabonense is reported for the first time from Equatorial Guinea. Lectotypifications are made for A. pungens, A. subulatum and its synonym, A. canaliculatum. By Simo-Droissart, M., Sonké, B., Droissart, V., Geerinck, D., Micheneau, C., Lowry, P.P., Plunkett, G.M., Hardy, O.J. & Stévart, T.
Published: June 2014
New species and new names in Malagasy orchids (Orchidaceae), Kew Bulletin 69(2).
Abstract:
Four attractive new species, Cynorkis dens-serpens, Eulophiella longibracteata, Neobathiea comet-halei and Liparis vulturiceps, are described for the first time. The identities of Benthamia africana, B. spiralis, Cynorkis angustipetala, C. speciosa, C. cinnabarina, C. grandiflora and Jumellea stenoglossa and J. faciliorchis are clarified and the necessary taxonomic changes made. By Johan Hermans, Phillip Cribb.
Published: 9. April 2014
Taxonomy of Atlantic Central African orchids 2. A second species of the rare genus Distylodon (Orchidaceae, Angraecinae) collected in Cameroon. PhytoKeys 36: 27−34.
Abstract:
While conducting field inventories in South Cameroon, we collected two specimens of a new species that we considered to belong to the genus Angraecopsis. Afterwards, a careful examination of specimens housed at main herbaria, along with the nomenclatural types, allows us to place it in Distylodon, a monotypic genus previously known from East Africa. Distylodon sonkeanum Droissart, Stévart & P.J.Cribb, sp. nov. was collected in the lowland coastal forest of Atlantic Central Africa. It is known from a single locality in the surroundings of the Campo-Ma’an National Park. The species differs from D. comptum, by its several-flowered inflorescences, longer leaves and spur, and shorter pedicel and ovary. The species appears to be rare and is assessed as Critically Endangered [CR B2ab(iii)] according to IUCN Red List Categories and Criteria. New field investigations are required to attempt to find it in the low-elevation parts of the Campo-Ma’an National Park in Cameroon. By Droissart, V., Cribb, P.J., Simo-Droissart, M. & Stévart, T.
Published: 1. November 2013
Morphometrics and molecular phylogenetics of the continental African species of Angraecum section Pectinaria (Orchidaceae). Plant Ecology and Evolution 146: 295–309.
Abstract:
Background and aims – Recent molecular studies suggest the polyphyly of Angraecum and the unnaturalness of some of its sections, as exemplified by sect. Pectinaria, which has species in two well-separated clades, one in Madagascar and the other in continental Africa. However, species delimitation among the five continental African members remained problematic due to morphological variability. In preparation for the taxonomic revision of this group, we used morphological and molecular data to re-assess the circumscription of each species, and to evaluate their monophyly and relationships to one another.
Methods – A total of 59 alcohol-preserved specimens were used to perform multivariate analyses on 37 morphological characters. DNA sequences from one nuclear (ITS-1) and five plastid regions (matK, rps16, trnL – F, trnC – petN and ycf1) were analyzed using Parsimony and Bayesian methods.
Key results – The morphometric study revealed five distinct morphospecies that correspond to the concepts of the currently recognized species. Angraecum doratophyllum and A. subulatum are the most distinct morphologically, whereas A. atlanticum, A. gabonense and A. pungens are most similar to one another. Phylogenetic analyses using a combined data set of the six markers yielded highly resolved, congruent trees with strong branch support. The polyphyly of A. sect. Pectinaria is confirmed, with continental African members appearing to be most closely related to sect. Dolabrifolia, found exclusively in Africa. The multiple accessions of A. doratophyllum, A. gabonense, A. pungens and A. subulatum each formed a well-supported clade. Parsimony and Bayesian analyses placed A. atlanticum and A. pungens in a subclade within which samples of A. pungens were nested but those of A. atlanticum formed a grade. These two species can be easily distinguished morphologically by leaf dimensions and flower length, but broader sampling in continental Africa is needed to test whether individuals recognized as A. atlanticum might represent two distinct taxa. By Simo-Droissart, M., Micheneau, C., Sonké, B., Droissart, V., Plunkett, G.M., Lowry II, P.P., Hardy, O.J. & Stévart, T.
Published: 1. April 2010
Taxonomy of Atlantic Central African Orchids 1. A New Species of Angraecum sect. Pectinaria (Orchidaceae) from Gabon and Equatorial Guinea. Systematic Botany, Volume 35, Number 2, April-June 2010, pp. 252-256(5)
Abstract:
During a recent survey of Atlantic central African orchids, we collected four orchid specimens in Rio Muni (Equatorial Guinea) that share the general morphology of Angraecum gabonense, the most frequent member of Angraecum section Pectinaria in Central Africa, but differ in leaf shape and flower size. Further inspection of specimens deposited at the Wageningen herbarium and cultivated in their greenhouse led to the discovery of additional specimens from the Monts Doudou area in Gabon. Comparison with other Angraecum specimens indicate that these collections represent a new species, which we describe here as Angraecum atlanticum , the fifth species of Angraecum section Pectinaria recorded in central Africa. The new species is restricted to submontane forests covering the mountain chain situated along the coasts of Gabon and Equatorial Guinea. The distinguishing features of the species include its leaves, which are more widely spaced than A. gabonese, and are 2.2 mm wide; its petals and sepals, which are slightly longer than the lip; its spur, which is somewhat inflated in the middle; and its larger ovary. Information on the ecology, phenology and distribution of Angraecum atlanticum is presented, along with a preliminary conservation assessment using the IUCN Red List Categories and Criteria. By Stévart, Tariq; Cawoy, Valérie; Damen, Theo; Droissart, Vincent.
Published on 11. September 2009.
Description of Four New Species of Bulbophyllum (Orchidaceae) from Madagascar.
Abstract.
Four new orchid species from Madagascar are described and illustrated. Notes on the distribution, ecology, and conservation status are provided. Bulbophyllum uroplatoides Hermans & C. A. Fischer, B. histrionicum Reichenbach f. ex G. A. Fischer & P. J. Cribb, and B. senghasii Q. A. Fischer & Sieder belong to section Calamaria Schleçhter, whereas B. bryophytoides G. A. Fischer & Andriantiana belongs to section Lichenophylax Schlfechter. Bulbophyllum uroplatoides Hermans & G. A. Fischer is related to B. cardiobulbim Bosser, but differs in the thickened racemes, overall plant size, the shape of the sepals, petals, and lip. and coloration. Bulbophyllum histrionicum Reichenbach f. ex G. A. Fischer & P. J. Cribb was previously recognized by Reichenbach as a new species but was never formally described. It is characterized by its large, orbicular to somewhat ovoid pseudobulbs that are green flushed with red, large, ovate-oblong to ovate-lanceolate leaves, red floral bracts, long sepals, narrowly triangular petals, and glabrous lip. Bulbophyllum senghasii G. A. Fischer & Sieder has orbicular, non-compressed bifoliate pseudobulbs, flowers with greenish yellow sepals that are spotted with dark brown on the outside, and an elliptic lip that is not compressed in the middle and has erose rather than long-ciliatë margins and falcate rather than straight stelidia. Bulbophyllum bryophytoides G. A. Fischer & Andriantiana is a very tiny plant distinguishable from other species of section Lichenophylax by its densely long-ciliate petals and its ciliate lip that lacks a median callus and has a glabrous surface. By Gunter A. Fischer, Anton Sieder, Johan Hermans, Jacky Andriantiana, Michael Kiehn, and Phillip J. Cribb.
Published: 1. June 2009
Le genre Stolzia (Orchidaceae) en Afrique centrale avec deux nouveaux taxons. Adansonia 31(1), 25-40
Abstract:
The genus Stolzia (Orchidaceae) in central Africa with two new taxa.
A taxonomic revision of genus Stolzia (Orchidaceae) occurring in central Africa is given. Nine taxa are recognized. Two new taxa from Cameroon and Equatorial Guinea (Rio Muni) are described and illustrated. Stolzia repens (Rolfe) Summerh. var. cleistogama Stévart, Droissart & Simo differs from the two other varieties of S. repens by its dorsal sepal, which is jointed to lateral sepal on one third of his total length, and by its smaller and non-reflected sepals and petals. Stolzia grandiflora P.J.Cribb subsp. lejolyana Stévart, Droissart & Simo is morphologically close to the type subspecies, endemic to Ethiopia, but differs from it by a longer inflorescence with two flowers that are smaller. The morphological affinity of S. grandiflora subsp. lejolyana appears to lie with the varieties of S. repens (Rolfe) Summerh. However, the new species differs by having inflorescences with two flowers and a longer and thinner peduncle. Stolzia cupuligera (Kraenzl.) Summerh. and S. peperomioides (Kraenzl.) Summerh. are neotypified. The position of S. thomensis Stévart & P.J.Cribb is reconsidered and proposed as S. peperomioides (Kraenzl.) Summerh. subsp. thomensis (Stévart & P.J.Cribb) Stévart, Droissart & Simo. Many new records of Stolzia are given. Key to identification of species and synopsis table of all taxa occurring in central Africa are given. By Vincent Droissart, Murielle Simo, Bonaventure Sonké, Valérie Cawoy, Tariq Stévart.
Published: 1. April 2009
Synopsis of the Genus Chamaeangis (Orchidaceae), Including Two New Taxa. Systematic Botany, Volume 34, Number 2, April–June 2009, pp. 285-296(12)
Abstract:
A synopsis of Chamaeangis (Orchidaceae) with a taxonomic key to the genus is provided. Twelve taxa are recognized. Detailed examination of the specimens revealed two novelties: Chamaeangis spiralis from Nigeria and Cameroon, and Chamaeangis lecomtei var. tenuicalcar , a new variety from Ivory Coast, Ghana, and Gabon. Chamaeangis pauciflora is shown to be synonymous with Chamaeangis letouzeyi, which is here redescribed in detail. Chamaeangis thomensis is neotypified, and Chamaeangis lecomtei var. lecomtei is lectotypified. Chamaeangis gracilis is treated as an excluded species. Several new country records of Chamaeangis are provided. By Droissart, Vincent; Sonké, Bonaventure; Nguembou K., Charlemagne; Djuikouo K., Marie-Noël; Parmentier, Ingrid; Stévart, Tariq.
Published: January 2007
Description of two new species and one new section of Bulbophyllum (Orchidaceae) from Madagascar. Adansonia, sér. 3, 29 (1) : 19-25.
Abstract:
Two new orchid species and a new section of Bulbophyllum Thouars are described from Madagascar. Bulbophyllum petrae G.A.Fischer, Sieder & P.J.Cribb differs from any other known Madagascan species in the size, form and structure of its flowers. It is placed in its own new section Polyradices G.A.Fischer, Sieder & P.J.Cribb which is distinguished by its tiny habit with densely clustered and bilaterally flattened, unifoliate pseudobulbs, its sessile, one- or two-flowered inflorescence, and its sepals, petals and lip which bear no hairs but the former are finely papillose on the margin and the latter is slightly papillose beneath. It is also distinguished by its lack of spiral vessels in its tissues, a situation very unusual in Madagascan Bulbophyllum. Bulbophyllum jackyi G.A.Fischer, Sieder & P.J.Cribb belongs in section Ploiarium but differs from other species in its unifoliate pseudobulbs, very short inflorescence, broad, erose bracts that enclose the flowers, broadly ovate, papillose fleshy lip and distinctive broadly winged lateral sepals that are papillose within. By Gunter A. Fischer, Anton Sieder, Phillip J. Cribb and Michael Kiehn.
