Molecular phylogenetic analysis and taxonomic reconsideration of Ceropegia hirsuta (Apocynaceae, Asclepiadoideae) reveal a novelty in Thailand, Ceropegia citrina sp. nov., with notes on its pollination ecology

The identity of Ceropegia hirsuta in Thailand has been questioned. Although this plant is quite similar to the original C. from India, being entirely hirsute, with yellowish-shaded flowers, a curved, funnel-shaped corolla tube, and broad lobes shorter than there are several clear differences morphological traits between materials collected type further specimens India. Moreover, s.s. restricted Peninsular In study, using molecular phylogenetic analysis based on DNA sequence data for ITS (nuclear) trnT-L, trnL, trnL-F (all cpDNA) markers, classical morphology-based delineation, we demonstrate that represents species its own clearly separated as well all other known congeners. Therefore, here describe it new species, citrina, sp. nov. A detailed description, illustrations, photographs provided, together comparison hirsuta, another Thai foetidiflora. We also provide characterization floral volatile compounds pollinators. Our study emphasizes convergence may lead errors taxonomic treatment within genus Ceropegia, relationships largely congruent geographic distribution.