Sexual reproduction in Taraxacum sect. Borealia (Asteraceae, Crepidinae) first documented in the continental Russian Far East

Modes of reproduction vary considerably in the genus Taraxacum. In particular, extent and distribution sexuality are decisive criteria for evaluation variation taxonomic conclusions this complicated genus. Taraxacum sect. Borealia is widespread Arctic Subarctic regions Asiatic part Russia, but sexual has not been known to occur there, unlike T. Arctica with a number sexually reproducing species continental Far East. A detailed analysis herbarium material kolymense Khokhryakov, using pollen size achene set examination, revealed distinctive member Borealia. The lectotype selected kolymensefrom rich type gathering consisting seven specimens, new consolidated description was compiled.