An evaluation of the taxonomy of Utricularia dichotoma Labill., U. monanthos Hook.f., and U. novae‐zelandiae Hook.f. (Lentibulariaceae)

Abstract

The taxonomy of Utricularia monanthos Hook.f. and U novae‐zelandiae Hook.f. (Lentibulariaceae) from New Zealand is evaluated. These two taxa are also discussed in relation to U. dichotoma Labill. and U. monanthos from Australia. Data on vegetative and floral characters were obtained from herbarium specimens in New Zealand and Australia, and from field work on existing natural populations throughout New Zealand. Considerable variation and similarity of characters was found among material described under U. dichotoma, U. monanthos, and U novae‐zelandiae, with no clear delineation between taxa evident. We therefore suggest that all material be placed under U. dichotoma. The distribution of U. dichotoma (U. novae‐zelandiae sens. lat. and including U. monanthos sens. str.) for New Zealand was also examined. A map showing its present known occurrence, and the location of previous records, where the plant may now be extinct, is provided.

Keywords:

• Lentibulariaceae
• Pleiochasia
• Utricularia dichotoma
• U. monanthos
• U. novae‐zelandiae
• taxonomy
• distribution
• New Zealand
• Australia