Taxonomic studies on Blumea DC, Laggera sch bip ex benth and Hook F and Pseudoconyza cuatrec (Asteraceae) in Peninsular India

Abstract

In this study, the taxonomic studies of three genera, viz., Blumea, Laggera, and Pseudoconyza, were attempted. Different areas of Peninsular India were explored during the period of work. The states of Andhra Pradesh, Goa, Gujarat, Karnataka, Kerala, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu and Telangana were explored during the flowering time of the studied genera. The field trips were conducted for collecting live specimens. The type locations of respective taxa were visited during the period of study. The distribution of each taxa was recorded. For studying variations, different populations of each taxa were collected from different localities. The relevant information including phenology were recorded in the field book from field itself. The cypselas were stored in zip lock bags in the field itself. The specimens collected were stored in both dry and wet conditions. Herbarium sheets are used for dry preservation whereas FAA and formalin are used for wet preservation. Herbarium sheets were prepared using conventional methods. Herbarium prepared during the study were deposited in herbarium of St. Joseph’s College, Devagiri (DEV). The plants were correctly identified with detailed descriptions, habitat details, photo plates, and distributions. A taxonomic key is provided for simple identification. The updated nomenclature has been given for each taxon. For simple identification, a taxonomy key is included. Specific comments on each taxon are given as a note under description. In addition, leaf and stem anatomical studies of these three genera were also attempted. The trichome characters, the presence of secretory canals, the shape of the leaf midrib, the number of vascular bundles in the leaf midrib, and leaf epidermal characters were found useful in delimiting the different taxa. In consultation with types, protologue, and latest literature and discussions with experts, the nomenclature of each species is updated. The herbariums MH, CALI, KFRI, TBGT, BSI, BSID, BLAT, AHMA, CAL, DEV, and RHT were consulted. Seven names were synonymized and one combination was created. Eight names were lectotypified.