Mazus jiangshiense (Mazaceae), a new species from China: evidence from morphological and molecular analyses

By

Chen, Yongbin
Chen, Xin-Yan
Ma, Liang
Zhao, Zhuang
Chen, Shipin

Type

Article

Date of Publication

2024

Original Publication

PhytoKeys

Volume

241

Pages

81--90

Subjects

Lamiales , Mazus , molecular markers , Morphology , nrITS , phylogenetics , rbcL , rps16 , trnL-trnF

Contributed by

Pensoft Publishers

Language

English

Published by

Sofia, Bulgaria Pensoft Publishers [2010]-

Identifiers

DOI: https://doi.org/10.3897/phytokeys.241.117787

 

Abstract

Utilising both morphological and molecular analyses, this study unveils Mazus jiangshiensesp. nov., a novel addition to the Mazaceae family, discovered in Shaowu County, Fujian Province, China. The comprehensive description and illustrations provided here are a result of a meticulous exploration of its morphological features. While bearing a resemblance to M. gracilis, this new-found species is distinguished by three distinct characteristics: its stems are delicately soft, its leaves possess a membranous quality and the ovary is notably villous at the apex. Integration of molecular evidence, derived from the nuclear ribosomal DNA (nrITS) and three plastid DNA sequences (rps16, rbcL and trnL-trnF), unequivocally supports the classification of M. jiangshiense as a distinct species. Notably, the molecular analysis positions it as a sister species to M. spicatus, underscoring the phylogenetic relationships within the genus Mazus. Our research not only introduces M. jiangshiense as a novel taxonomic entity, but also provides a nuanced understanding of its morphological differences and molecular affinities, enriching our comprehension of the diversity and evolutionary relationships of Mazaceae.