[Botany • 2025] Thismia selangorensis (Thismiaceae) • A New mitriform Species of Thismia sect. Geomitra from Selangor, Malaysia

 

Thismia selangorensis  Siti-Munirah & Gim Siew,  

in Siti-Munirah, Siew, Mat-Tahir et Azhar, 2025. 

DOI: doi.org/10.3897/phytokeys.267.157968 

Abstract

Thismia selangorensis, a distinct mitriform species of the mycoheterotrophic genus Thismia, is described herein. It was first discovered in a tree hole on a riverbank in Taman Eko Rimba Sungai Chongkak, Selangor, Malaysia. This new species is superficially similar to members of Thismia section Geomitra in that it has coralliform roots, inner tepals forming a mitre with three appendages on top, and stamens with a prominent dorsal rib. However, T. selangorensis differs from known species of T. sect. Geomitra in several morphological features, including the colour of the flowers, the shape of the mitre, the shape of the inner tepal lobes forming the mitre, and the presence of translucent reticulation on the inner surface of the floral tube. Thismia selangorensis is provisionally classified as Critically Endangered according to the IUCN Red List categories and criteria.

Key words: Ecopark, endemic, Geomitra, mitre, achlorophyllous plant, Southeast Asian flora, taxonomy

Thismia selangorensis.
 A. Plants with flowers and roots; B. Top view of mitre (inner tepals); C. Side view of inner tepal; D. Ovary, stigma, and style; E. Floral tube with mitre removed and minute triangular outer tepal; F. Longitudinal section of floral tube with three stamens; G. Outer view of three pendulous stamens; H, I. View of inner side of floral tube, upper part (H), lower part (I); J. Bract; K. Leaf. Drawn by Mohammad Aidil Nordin from the spirit material (FRI 79179 & 79180).

Thismia selangorensis.
A. A plant with full flower and coralliform roots; A1. Claviform tip of mitre appendage; B. Outer tepal and filaments; C. Inner tepal forming a mitre; D. Floral tube and mitre; E. Mitre viewed from above; F. Floral tube with ovary and flower bud surrounded by bracts and tepals split on apex; G. Longitudinal section of floral tube, showing inner part (H); H. Inner surface of floral tube; I. Top view of stamens; J. Inner view of a stamen; K. Outer view of a stamen; L. Six stamens viewed from below; M. Stigma. Photos by Siti-Munirah MY and Mohd Faizal; all from FRI 79179 & 79180; images not to scale (see dimensions in description and Fig. 2).

Thismia selangorensis in its natural habitat.
A. Young flower that is not yet fully developed (uncollected plant); B. Mature flower living just beside the roots of a tree buttress (uncollected plant); C. A clump of T. selangorensis at different stages in its natural habitat (FRI 79182); D. A clump of flowers showing a different stage of mitre (FRI 79179 & FRI 79180). Photos by Gim Siew (A–C) and Mohd Faizal (D).

 Thismia selangorensis Siti-Munirah & Gim Siew, sp. nov.

 

Diagnosis. Thismia selangorensis differs from other species of Thismia sect. Geomitra in the following combinations of characteristics: the flower is white to brownish with peach colouration; the distal part of inner tepals is arrow-like with distinct basal lobes, perfectly connate to each other when young, partly splitting on the sutures with age; mitre is wide and resembling a large umbrella, convex and trilobed when viewed from above in younger flowers, flat and irregularly hexalobed in old flowers.

 Mat Yunoh Siti-Munirah, Tan Gim Siew, Mohd Faizal Mat-Tahir and Ahmad Azhar. 2025. Thismia selangorensis (Thismiaceae): A New mitriform Fairy Lantern Species from Selangor, Malaysia.  PhytoKeys. 267: 9-21. DOI: doi.org/10.3897/phytokeys.267.157968 [28 Nov 2025]

[Botany • 2025] Gastrodia biruensis (Orchidaceae: Epidendroideae) • A New Species from East Java, Indonesia

Gastrodia biruensis Dwitara, Fatih, Yudistira & Mustaqim,

in Dwitara, Fatih, Yudistira et Mustaqim, 2025. 

openjournals.library.sydney.edu.au/TEL

Abstract

Gastrodia biruensis Dwitara, Fatih, Yudistira & Mustaqim, a new mycoheterotrophic orchid species from the eastern part of Java, Indonesia, is described and illustrated. It is similar to two other Javan endemics G. crispa J.J.Sm. and G. selabintanensis Tsukaya & A.Hidayat, but differs in several morphological details, as well as flower colour. Information on its distribution and ecology, photographs and illustrations are provided.

Keywords: biodiversity, herbs, orchids, conservation, taxonomy, mycoheterotrophic orchids, terrestrial

Morphology of Gastrodia biruensis.
A. Plant habit, B. Rhizome, C. Scale, D. Flower frontal view, E. Dorsal view, F. Flower lateral dissection, G. Sepals and petal adaxial view, H. Sepals and petal abaxial view, I. Pedicel, ovary, column and labellum lateral view, J. Column with ovary, K. Column stelidia, L. Column dorsal view, M. Labellum adaxial surface, N. Labellum abaxial surface, O. Anther-cap, abaxial and adaxial view, P. Pollinarium, Q. Floral bract, adaxial (ad) and abaxial view (ab).

All from type material. Photograph by Fariq I. A. Shidiq and design by Yuda R. Yudistira.

Gastrodia biruensis Dwitara, Fatih, Yudistira & Mustaqim, sp. nov.

Diagnosis: Gastrodia biruensis is similar to G. crispa J.J.Sm., but differs in having larger flowers (3.2–3.8 × 1.2–1.7 cm vs 1.8–2 × 0.9–1.3 cm), smooth (vs warty) outer sepal surface, petals white with an orange center extending to the apex (vs pure white), a larger labellum (11–13 × 7–10 mm vs 7–7.6 × 6–7 mm), labellum whitish-orange in the basal half and orange in the upper half, with two orange calli (vs white suffused pale yellowish green near apex), apex of labellum obtuse (vs acute), a longer column (10 mm vs 6.5–7 mm), orange (vs white) column margin, and orange (vs white) stelidia. Gastrodia biruensis is also similar to G. selabintanensis Tsukaya & A.Hidayat but differs in having larger flowers (3.2–3.8 × 1.2–1.7 cm vs c. 1.7 × 0.9 cm), labellum much longer than the column by c. 1.6 times (vs 1.1–1.3), yellowish basal calli (vs pure white), labellum orange in the upper half distal calli (vs yellowish white), orange (vs white) column margin, and orange (vs white) stelidia. (Table 1) 

Galuh A.C. Dwitara, Muhammad Al Fatih, Yuda R. Yudistira, Wendy Achmmad Mustaqim. 2025. A New Species of Gastrodia (Orchidaceae: Epidendroideae) from East Java, Indonesia. Telopea. 29; 285–291.

 openjournals.library.sydney.edu.au/TEL/article/view/21366

[Botany • 2025] Thismia dasyantha & T. velaris (Thismiaceae) • Two Species of Thismia sect. Thismia from Sarawak, Malaysia

Thismia dasyantha &
Thismia velaris 

Dančák, Sochor & Hroneš, 

 in Dančák, Hroneš, Sochor, Uvírová, Blažek, Yunoh et Yiing, 2025.

 DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.715.2.2  

  Researchgate.net/publication/394545435

Abstract

Thismia velaris and T. dasyantha (Thismiaceae), two new species from Sarawak (Malaysian Borneo), are described. Key distinguishing features, particularly in floral structure, are highlighted through comparative morphological analyses accompanied by illustrations. Additionally, phylogenetic relationships are assessed using molecular data, and both newly described species are placed within the broader evolutionary framework of Thismia. Both species, being characterized by vermiform roots and six free tepals of equal shape and size, are classified within Thismia sect. Thismia subsect. Odoardoa. Preliminary conservation assessments, following IUCN Red List criteria, suggest that both species may be at risk due to their restricted distributions and potential habitat threats. Through the discovery of T. velaris and T. dasyantha, the diversity and biogeographical patterns of Thismia in Borneo are further elucidated, emphasizing the need for continued exploration and conservation efforts.

Borneo, Dioscoreales, mycoheterotrophy, rainforest, taxonomy, Monocots

Thismia velaris.
A. Habit of flowering plant. B. Outer view of stamens inside the dissected floral tube. C. Longitudinally dissected floral tube with inner view of stamens, transverse bars and style.

 Drawn by Nela Malá from Dančák & Sochor BOR30/23.

Thismia velaris Dančák, Sochor & Hroneš, 
A–D. Overall appearance showing more (A, C, D) and less (B) common morphotypes. E. Top view of flower. F. Dissected floral tube with colourless transverse bars and showing the position of stamen tube and style with stigma. G. Outer view of stamen with lateral appendage which central part is elongated into membranaceous veil. H. Lateral view of stamen (the neighbouring connective cut off). I. Top of the supraconnective (viewed from inside) with three distinct lobes. J. Style and stigma.

Photos by M. Sochor (A, C, E–J) from Dančák & Sochor BOR30/23 and M. Hroneš (B, D) from uncollected plants recorded at the same locality in 2024.

Thismia velaris Dančák, Sochor & Hroneš, sp. nov. 

 Diagnosis:—Thismia velaris is externally similar to T. malayana but differs by floral tube colourless translucent between veins (vs. brown in the upper half), flat annulus (vs. outer margin of annulus prominently raised), having three triangular lobes on supraconnective apex (vs. five appendages of three different shapes and sizes), and the central part of the lateral appendage elongated into membranaceous veil exceeding the apices of the supraconnective lobes (vs. central part of the lateral appendage without the veil, not exceeding the apex of the supraconnective appendages).

Etymology:—The specific epithet is derived from the Latin word velum (veil, curtain), referring to the unique veil-like structure hanging from the lateral appendage of the stamen.

Thismia dasyantha.
A. Habit of flowering plant. B. View of the flower from the top. C. Dissected floral tube showing outer view of stamens, style and reticulate structure on the inner surface of the floral tube. D. Dissected floral tube showing inner view of stamens, style and reticulate structure on the inner surface of the floral tube.

Drawn by Nela Malá Dančák & Hroneš MDMH2023/32.

Thismia dasyantha Dančák, Sochor & Hroneš, 
A–C. Overall appearance. D. Top view of flower. E. Distinctly verrucose flower bud and dissected floral tube showing position of stamen tube. F. Annulus with a hexaradial figure resembling a stylised outline of a flower on its inner margin. G. Outer view of stamen. H. Inner view of stamens. I. Style and stigma viewed from above. J. Fruiting plant with elongated pedicel and capsule.

 Photos by V. T. Blažek (A, I) and M. Hroneš (B, D, E, G, H) from Dančák & Hroneš MDMH2023/32 and M. Hroneš (C, F, J) from uncollected plants recorded at the same site in 2024.

 

Thismia dasyantha Dančák, Sochor & Hroneš, sp. nov.  

Diagnosis:—Thismia dasyantha is distantly similar to T. pallida but differs in annulus indistinct, flat, with opening ca. 1 mm in diameter (vs. annulus distinct, raised, with opening ca. 2 mm), the opening resembling a schematic outline of a hexamerous angiosperm flower (vs. opening circular), tepals basally connate, 2.5–3 mm wide at the base (vs. free, ca. 2 mm wide at the base), tepal appendages 10–14 mm long (vs. ca. 3 mm long), three appendages (vs. five appendages) on supraconnective apex, the middle appendage being the shortest (vs. the longest), and stigma lobes deeply bifid (vs. shallowly notched).

Etymology:—The specific epithet is derived from the Greek words dasýs, meaning “hairy” and ánthos, meaning “flower”, referring to the prominent verrucae present on the outer surface of the floral tube, ovary and the abaxial side of the tepals, which resemble hairs.

 

Martin DANČÁK, Michal HRONEŠ, Michal SOCHOR, Alena UVÍROVÁ, Vojtěch Tobias BLAŽEK, Siti-Munirah Mat YUNOH and Ling Chea YIING. 2025. Thismia velaris and T. dasyantha, Two New Species of Thismia section Thismia subsect. Odoardoa (Thismiaceae) from Sarawak, Malaysia. Phytotaxa. 715(2); 117-128. DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.715.2.2 [2025-08-19]   Researchgate.net/publication/394545435_Thismia_velaris_and_T_dasyantha_two_new_species_of_Thismia_from_Sarawak_Malaysia

[Botany • 2024] Thismia papillata (Thismiaceae) • A New Species from northern Vietnam

 

Thismia papillata Nuraliev & Yudina, 

in Nuraliev, Yudina, Dac, Kuznetsov, Kuznetsova et Semenyuk, 2024.

DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.655.3.4

Abstract 

Thismia papillata, a new species of Thismiaceae, is described and illustrated. The species was discovered in 2023 in Thanh Hoa Province, northern Vietnam. The new species is readily distinguishable from most of its congeners by the presence of appendages of outer and inner tepals, inner tepals fused into a mitre, absence of a wing-like appendage of supraconnective and absence of interstaminal glands. Thismia papillata is similar to T. abei, T. taiwanensis and T. tuberculata, differing mainly in prominently papillate outer hypanthium surface, appendages of the outer tepals up to 15 mm long, appendages of the inner tepals up to 9 mm long, and column-like placentas. Gaps in understanding of interactions between the inner tepals in Thismia are highlighted that are related to the postgenital tepal fusion and tepal aestivation. Similar uncertainties in determination of fusion between the stamens are also uncovered.  

Eastern Indochina, Flora, mitre, mycoheterotrophy, plant diversity, plant taxonomy, stamen tube, Xuan Lien Nature Reserve, Fungi

Maxim S. NURALIEV, Sophia V. YUDINA, Le Xuan DAC, Andrey N. KUZNETSOV, Svetlana P. KUZNETSOVA and Irina I. SEMENYUK. 2024. Thismia papillata (Thismiaceae), A New Species from northern Vietnam. Phytotaxa. 655(3); 261-271. DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.655.3.4 [2024-06-26]

[Botany • 2025] Gastrodia microchila (Orchidaceae: Epidendroideae) • A New Species from Brunei Darussalam

 

Gastrodia microchila Hroneš, 

 in Hroneš, Sochor, Uvírová, bin Pandai, Jaafar, Sukri et Dančák, 2025. 

 DOI: doi.org/10.3897/phytokeys.256.149020

Abstract

A new orchid species, Gastrodia microchila is described and illustrated. The species was found in a mixed dipterocarp forest in the Belait district, Brunei Darussalam, northern Borneo in 2024. It is distinct from most Gastrodia species in western Malesia by its small lip and column, and presence of the smooth cushion-like tissue on the inner side of lateral sepals. Gastrodia microchila is only the second species of Gastrodia recorded for Brunei Darussalam and the seventh known species for Borneo. A determination key for all Gastrodia species occurring in western Malesia is also provided.

Key words: Borneo, endemic species, holomycotrophic orchid, Malesia, mycoheterotrophy, tribe Gastrodieae

Gastrodia microchila Hroneš
A habit of flowering plant B detail of inflorescence with bracts C dissected synsepalum with free parts of sepals and petals D flower viewed from above E flower viewed from below F front view of flower G lip H column

A–H from Hroneš 2024/4 (Illustration V. Blažek).

Gastrodia microchila Hroneš
A habit of flowering plant B fruiting plant with capsules on elongated pedicels C detail of inflorescence with side view of flower D front view of flower E inflorescence viewed from above F flower viewed from below with connate and free part of lateral sepals, and ovary G dissected synsepalum showing minute petals and cushion-like smooth tissue on the internal side of sepals H part of the stem with leaf I tuber

 A–I from Hroneš 2024/4 (Photo M. Hroneš).

 Gastrodia microchila Hroneš, sp. nov.

Diagnosis. Gastrodia microchila is similar to G. holttumii Carr from Peninsular Malaysia but differs by narrower cylindrical rhizome without distinct nodes (vs. robust, distinctly noded), flowers 8.5–9.0 mm wide, narrowly open (vs. 9.0–11.0 mm wide, widely open), free part of lateral and dorsal sepals oblong triangular to broadly triangular, up to 4.5 × 5.0 mm (vs. elliptic to oblong elliptic, 6.0–7.0 × 3.0–5.0 mm), free part of petals indistinct, ca. 0.7 × 0.6 mm, elliptic (vs. 1.0–2.0 × 0.7–1.0 mm, ovate), hypochile 2.0 × 2.0 mm, broadly oblong-orbicular (vs. 2.0 × 1.5 mm, oblong-ovate) and stelidia longer than anther cap (vs. subequal to anther cap).

Etymology. The name is derived from the Latin micro- = small and -chilum = lip, referring to the size of the lip, which is among the smallest in Gastrodia species in western Malesia.

 Michal Hroneš, Michal Sochor, Alena Uvírová, Azlan bin Pandai, Salwana Jaafar, Rahayu S. Sukri and Martin Dančák. 2025. Gastrodia microchila (Orchidaceae, Epidendroideae), A New Species from Brunei Darussalam. PhytoKeys. 256: 1-11. DOI: doi.org/10.3897/phytokeys.256.149020

[Botany • 2018] Sciaphila lambirensis (Triuridaceae) • A new mycoheterotrophic plant from Sarawak, Borneo, Malaysia

 

Sciaphila lambirensis Suetsugu, 

in Suetsugu. 2018.  

 DOI: doi.org/10.18942/apg.201805

Borneo is known to harbor the greatest species diversity of the mycoheterotrophic genus Sciaphila (Triuridaceae) and is home to 11 species, including five endemics. Here, another undescribed Sciaphila species, Sciaphila lambirensis, which was discovered during a botanical survey in Lambir Hills National Park (Sarawak, Borneo, Malaysia) is reported along with a detailed morphological account. Sciaphila lambirensis is similar to S. brevistyla in having six equal perianth segments with a swollen apex bearing long hairs in both staminate and carpellate flowers. However, it is easily distinguishable by the secund arrangement of the flowers and the pedicel slightly recurved at its apex. A key to the species of Sciaphila in Borneo is provided.

Key words: Lambir Hills National Park, mycoheterotrophy, new species, taxonomy 

Sciaphila lambirensis Suetsugu, sp. nov.

Kenji Suetsugu. 2018. Sciaphila lambirensis (Triuridaceae), a new mycoheterotrophic plant from Sarawak, Borneo, Malaysia. Acta Phytotaxonomica et Geobotanica. 69(3); 175-180. DOI: doi.org/10.18942/apg.201805

[Botany • 2025] Thismia aliasii (Thismiaceae) • A New Species from Terengganu, Peninsular Malaysia

 

 Thismia aliasii Siti-Munirah, 

in Siti-Munirah et Alias, 2025.

DOI: doi.org/10.3897/phytokeys.254.136085

Abstract

A new mycoheterotrophic species, Thismia aliasii, is described and illustrated. This species inhabits a hill dipterocarp forest in mountains of eastern Peninsular Malaysia. Thismia aliasii differs from other Thismia species by the following features: tepals equal in size and shape with different length of their appendages, appendages of the outer tepals shorter than those of the inner tepals (3.5 mm vs. ca. 26–32 mm long), stamen supraconnective at apex with three long filiform appendages and two acute appendages, and the margins of individual connectives abaxially raised into a conspicuous rib. With respect to floral morphology, T. aliasii should be placed to Thismia subsect. Odoardoa. According to the categories and criteria of the IUCN Red List, T. aliasii is provisionally classified as Critically Endangered (CR).

Key words: Achlorophyllous plants, endemism, Gunung Chemerong, Monocots, Terengganu, Thismia subsection Odoardoa

 Thismia aliasii 
A flowering plant (over-brightened by a camera flash) B anthetic flower, top view B1 annulus, top view B2 tip of appendage of outer tepal B3 tip of appendage of inner tepal C distal portion of flower, lateral view C1 flower, top view D floral tube (with its apex removed), side view D1 outer surface of floral tube (showing tiny glands) E inner surface of flower tube, pistil and ovary E1 longitudinal section of ovary and pistil with stigma F fruiting plant F1 seeds in capsule F2 seeds.

Photos by Siti-Munirah (A, C1: FRI 79119; A1, B–E: FRI 79167; E1, F1, F2: FRI 91119, spirit material) and Mohamad Alias (F: FRI 91119).

 Thismia aliasii 
A plant with flower and roots B top view of flower showing tepals and annulus C bract (abaxial view) D leaf (abaxial view) E style and stigma F stamens (outer view) G stamens (inner view) H fruiting plant.

All drawn by Mohamad Aidil Noordin from spirit material, FRI 91119.

Habitat and habit of Thismia aliasii
A plants in situ B plant with flower bud C plant with anthetic flower.

All photos by Siti-Munirah.

 Thismia aliasii Siti-Munirah, sp. nov.

 

Diagnosis. Thismia aliasii is very similar to the species of the T. subsection Odoardoa, as the tepals are the same in shape and size. However, the tepal appendages of the new species are of unequal length, the inner ones are longer than the outer ones, while the tepal appendages of the other species are of equal length. In addition, in the new species the margins of the individual connectives are raised abaxially into the conspicuous rib, whereas connectives are almost flat abaxially in the rest of the species.

Landscapes of Gn. Chemerong and the species of Thismia found there
A the Chemerong waterfall with a height of 370 m B the Chemerong River not far from the habitat of T. aliasii
C Thismia aliasii, an individual discovered by Mohamad Alias in 2019 (FRI 91119) D Thismia aseroe (FRI 79116) found on the trail at Hutan Lipur Chemerong.

Photos by Siti-Munirah (A, B, D) and Mohamad Alias (C).

Etymology: The species is named after Mr. Alias (the second author), a current ranger of the Terengganu Forestry Department (JPNT), who is also a freelance photographer (known as John Sp) and who was the first to discover the species.

Mat Yunoh Siti-Munirah and Shakri Mohamad Alias. 2025. Thismia aliasii (Thismiaceae), A New Species from Terengganu, Peninsular Malaysia. PhytoKeys. 254: 175-188. DOI: doi.org/10.3897/phytokeys.254.136085

[Botany • 2024] Thismia perlisensis (Thismiaceae) • A New red-annulus Species of Thismia sect. Thismia from Peninsular Malaysia

Thismia perlisensis  Besi & Rusea,

in Besi, Jabar, Rahman, Saad, Ahmadni et Go, 2024.  

DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.675.1.1 

 

Abstract

A new species, Thismia perlisensis, found during a scientific expedition in the Perlis State Park, is described and illustrated. The new species was discovered in a wetland forest on a limestone foothill. Morphological description, photographic data including habitat, and a key to the species of the Thismia Sect. Thismia Subsect. Brunonithismia recorded from Malaysia are provided. The new species is easily distinguished from the similar species, T. arachnites, T. javanica, T. tentaculata, and T. kenyirensis by the prominent reddish dome-shaped annulus instead of ring-like with rim, deeply trilobed stigma with bifid and subulate lobes, and claviform apices of the inner tepals.

Key words: THISMIACEAE, endemism, mycoheterotrophic plants, Perlis state, Peninsular Malaysia, plant diversity, Monocots

Thismia perlisensis in the wild.

 Images by Edward Entalai Besi and Muhamad Ikhwanuddin Mat Esa.

Flower’s dissection of Thismia perlisensis.
 A. Plant. B. Flower. C. Claviform apex of an inner tepals. D. Dome-shaped annulus. E. Stamens and pistil. F. Stamens. G. Anther thecae. H. View of the supraconnectives. I, J. Pistil with stigmas straightened showing subulate lobes. B–J spirit-preserved specimens.

 Images by Edward Entalai Besi.

Thismia perlisensis Besi & Rusea sp. nov. 

 Type:—MALAYSIA. Peninsular Malaysia: Perlis State, Perlis State Park, ca. 100 m elev., 4 October 2022, E.E. Besi, M.I. Mat Esa, S.H. Tan, D. Sandin & R. Go EDW136 (holotype UPM spirit collection). 

Diagnosis:—Thismia perlisensis can be easily distinguished from the Thismia arachnites Ridley (1905: 197) and Thismia javanica J.J.Sm. (1910: 32) by the blood-red, dome-shaped annulus (vs. ring-like with rim, orange annulus), prominent trilobed stigma with 1.8 mm long, bifid and subulate lobes (vs. ovate, truncate stigma), and claviform apices of appendages of the inner tepals (vs. subulate apices of appendages of the inner tepals). 

 

Etymology:—The specific epithet is named after Perlis State, the type locality of this species.

 

Edward Entalai Besi, Qistina Anis Mad Jabar, Syamil Abd Rahman, Mohd Zulkifly Saad, Ag Shaffie Ag Ahmadni and Rusea Go. 2024. Thismia perlisensis (Thismiaceae), A New red-annulus Thismia Species from Peninsular Malaysia.  Phytotaxa. 675(1); 1-10. DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.675.1.1 [2024-12-02] 

[Botany • 2025] Gastrodia lohitensis (Orchidaceae: Epidendroideae: Gastrodieae) • A New mycotrophic Orchid from India

 

 Gastrodia lohitensis   

in Chowlu, Tsering, Ray, Rao, Pertin, Dash et Kabeer, 2024. 

DOI: doi.org/10.1111/njb.04556

Abstract

A new mycotrophic species of the genus Gastrodia (Orchidaceae), is described and illustrated from Arunachal Pradesh, India. The species is unique within the genus in having two oblong–linear calli which are parallelly arranged along the margins of the claw of the labellum, and white flowers. The new species is assessed as 'Endangered' according to the IUCN red list criteria.

Krishna Chowlu, Jambey Tsering, Ajit Ray, Abbareddy Nageswara Rao, Abing Pertin, Sudhansu Sekhar Dash and Altaf Kabeer. 2025. Gastrodia lohitensis sp. nov. (Orchidaceae, Epidendroideae) from India. Nordic Journal of Botany. DOI: doi.org/10.1111/njb.04556

[Botany • 2024] Thismia jinzun (Thismiaceae) • A New Species from Hainan Island, China

 

Thismia jinzun  

in Lu, Yang, Qin et Xu, 2024.  

DOI: 10.11646/phytotaxa.664.4.4

Abstract

Thismia jinzun, a new fully mycoheterotrophic species has been discovered from Hainan Province, China. Thismia jinzun is similar to T. javanica and T. tentaculata in overall appearance, but it obviously differs from the latter two species in several characters. Thismia jinzun has 10–12 mm long, gold-yellow tepal appendages (vs 20–30 mm long, orange-white in T. javanica, and ca. 17 mm long, orange-red in T. tentaculata), a gold-yellow floral tube (vs pale orange or pale yellow in T. javanica and white in T. tentaculata), and a gold-yellow annulus (vs orange in T. javanica and bright yellow in T. tentaculata). According to the IUCN criteria, the conservation status of T. jinzun is classified as Critically Endangered (CR).

conservation status, IUCN, tropical forest, Thismia jinzun, Fungi 

Thismia jinzun sp. nov. 

Chunyang LU, Haijun YANG, Wenhao QIN and Han XU. 2024. Thismia jinzun (Thismiaceae), A New Species of Thismia Genus from Hainan Island, China.  Phytotaxa. 664(4); 273-280. DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.664.4.4

[Botany • 2024] Thismia occasa, T. chicoreoides & T. solomonensis • Three New Species and New Records of Thismiaceae in The Solomon Islands

 Thismia occasa T.C.Hsu, S.W.Chung & C.W.Lin, 
T. chicoreoides T.C.Hsu, S.W.Chung & C.W.Lin,
 T. solomonensis S.W.Chung, T.C.Hsu & C.W.Lin,  

 in Chung, Hsu, Lin, Yang, Fanerii, Potisopa et Li, 2024. 

Taiwania.ntu.edu.tw/abstract/2009

  facebook.com/TaiwaniaOffice 

Abstract

Thismia (Thismiaceae), whose distributions are currently known from Asia, Australia, and South America, is newly recorded in the Solomon Islands. Through extensive field explorations, three new species of Thismia were discovered in the rainforest of the Solomon Islands and are herein delineated as T. occasa, T. chicoreoides, and T. solomonensis, all belonging to sect. Sarcosiphon. Comprehensive species descriptions, line drawings, and color plates are furnished for each species, accompanied by a distribution map delineating their respective ranges.

Keyword: biodiversity, Burmanniaceae, endemism, mycoheterotrophic, Sarcosiphon, tropical rainforest, taxonomy

Thismia occasa T.C.Hsu, S.W.Chung & C.W.Lin, sp. nov. 

Diagnosis: Among the species in Thismia sect. Sarcosiphon, T. occasa is most similar to T. crocea in habit and flower colour, but it is different in its larger mitre approximately 1/2.5 (vs. 1/3–1/4) the length of the whole flower, mitre with 3 impressed sutures (vs. nearly connate), annulus formed by 6 low rectangular lobes (vs. 6 rounded, bilamellate lobes), stamens pendent from the apical margin of the floral tube (vs. sunken inside the floral tube), and lateral appendage bilobed (vs. more or less truncate). 

Etymology: The specific epithet "occasa" is derived from the orange-red flower that imparts a sunset hue.

three new species of Thismia were discovered in the rainforest of the Solomon Islands and are delineate as T. occasa (left), T. chicoreoides (central), and T. solomonensis (right), all belonging to sect. Sarcosiphon.

Thismia chicoreoides T.C.Hsu, S.W.Chung & C.W.Lin, sp. nov.  

Diagnosis: Similar to Thismia viridistriata as it possesses a blackish-brown-tinged flower adorned with verrucose or finger-like protrusions, however, T. chicoreoides is different in its perianth inside with 12 vertical flat (vs. partly detached from its surface) ribs, apical end of individual connective slightly verrucose (vs. several hairs ca. 0.15–0.2 mm long), lateral appendage central lobe being largest (vs. smallest) and stigma lobes triangular (vs. inverted trapezoid). 

Etymology: The specific epithet "chicoreoides" refers to the verrucose flower, which resembles the appearance of some species of Chicoreus, such as C. paini Houart. 

Thismia solomonensis S.W.Chung, T.C.Hsu & C.W.Lin, sp. nov.  

Diagnosis: Thismia solomonensis resembles T. nigra in vegetative characters. However, the new species differs from the latter in its shorter stem, 2–12 mm tall (vs. up to 80 mm), yellowish-bronze perianth coloration (vs. blackish-tinged), unlobed individual connectives (vs. 2 small lobes), and a glabrous apex (vs. several long hairs in the middle). 

Etymology: The specific epithet refers to the Solomon Islands, where the new species was discovered.  

Shih-Wen Chung, Tian-Chuan Hsu, Che-Wei Lin, Tsung-Yu Aleck Yang, Moffat Fanerii, Fred Potisopa and Chia-Wei Li. 2024. Three New Species and New Records of Thismia (Thismiaceae) in The Solomon Islands. Taiwania. DOI: 10.6165/tai.2024.69.336

 Taiwania.ntu.edu.tw/abstract/2009

  facebook.com/TaiwaniaOffice/posts/891632916320734

 facebook.com/Darthvaderiana/posts/10225907291852504

[Botany • 2024] Gastrodia indica (Orchidaceae: Epidendroideae: Gastrodieae) • A New completely cleistogamous holomycotrophic Species from India

 

Gastrodia indica M.Khanal, 

in Khanal, S. Sarkar, K. Sarkar, Chhetri, Rai, Kumar et Rawat, 2024. Gastrodia 

DOI: 10.11646/phytotaxa.663.1.3 

facebook.com/MadhusudhanKhanal18

 

Abstract

Gastrodia indica sp. nov. has been described as a new species from Sikkim, India. This is the first cleistogamous species of the genus Gastrodia discovered from India. It is morphologically allied to G. exilis and G.dyeriana but critical examination revealed considerable differences in floral morphological characters. A detailed taxonomical description along with photoplates, comparison with the allied species and keys for all Gastrodia species from India have been provided to aid in easy identification.

Cleistogamy, Sikkim Himalaya, mycoheterotroph, orchid, taxonomy, Monocots

Gastrodia indica M.Khanal

Madhusudhan Khanal, Shuvadip Sarkar, Kingsuk Sarkar, Prakash Chhetri, Santosh Kumar Rai, Devendra Kumar and Sandeep Rawat. 2024. Gastrodia indica (Orchidaceae: Gastrodieae), A New completely cleistogamous holomycotrophic Species from India. Phytotaxa. 663(1); 26-32. DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.663.1.3

 facebook.com/MadhusudhanKhanal18/posts/4575256436032747

 facebook.com/TaxonomistMS/posts/1033025702161857

[Botany • 2024] Gastrodia daweishanensis (Orchidaceae: Epidendroideae: Gastrodieae) • A New Species from Yunnan, China

Gastrodia daweishanensis Ying Qin & Yan Liu, 

in Qin, Huang, Wang et Liu, 2024. 

大围山天麻  ||  taiwania.ntu.edu.tw/abstract/2007

Abstract

Gastrodia daweishanensis Ying Qin & Yan Liu (Orchidaceae), a new species from Yunnan, China is described. The new species is similar to G. putaoensis X. H. Jin, but differs from the latter by its yellow flowers, perianth tube ventrally distinctly swollen near the base forming a pouch-shaped outgrowth and inner surface of the front half densely pubescent. The detailed information of the new species, including morphological descriptions, illustrations, phenology, etymology and conservation assessment are provided.

Keyword: Gastrodia putaoensis, Gastrodieae, holomycotrophic orchids, morphology, yellow flower

  

Gastrodia daweishanensis. A. Habit. B. Inflorescence. C. Flower, front view. D. Flower, top view. E. Flower, ventral view. F. Flower, side view. G. Opened perianth tube. H. Flower with half of perianth tube removed. I. Anther cap and pollinaria. J. Columns, top view and ventral view. K. Ovary, column, lip, side view, noting red papillae on the tip of lip. L. Lips, top view. M. Rhizome. Photos by Ying Qin from living plants of the holotype population.

Gastrodia daweishanensis Ying Qin & Yan Liu, sp. nov.

大围山天麻 

The new species is similar to G. putaoensis X. H. Jin. Shared characters mainly include similar shape of lip, white disc of lip, ligulate apex of lip densely covered with yellow and red papillae, perianth tube with raised veins on outer surface, similar shape of column and caducous floral bracts. However, it differs from the latter mainly by its yellow (vs. greyish white) flowers, perianth tube ventrally distinctly (vs. indistinctly) swollen near the base forming a pouch-shaped outgrowth (vs. without pouchshaped outgrowth), inner surface of perianth tube densely pubescent (vs. glabrous) distally. A detailed comparison between G. daweishanensis and G. putaoensis is showed in Table 1. ...

Etymology: The epithet “daweishanensis” refers to Daweishan National Park, Pingbian County, Honghe Hani and Yi Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan Province, China, where the new species was found.

Ying Qin, Shuang-Quan Huang, Bing-Mou Wang and Yan Liu. 2024. Gastrodia daweishanensis (Orchidaceae), A New Species from Yunnan, China.  Taiwania. 69(3); 317-320. DOI: 10.6165/tai.2024.69.317

  https://taiwania.ntu.edu.tw/abstract/2007