Taxonomic revision of the South American genus Quinchamalium (Schoepfiaceae).

Abstract

Taxonomic revision of the South American genus Quinchamalium (Schoepfiaceae). The genus Quinchamalium comprises hemiparasitic herbs endemic to South America. Its distribution expands through the Andes from northern Peru to southern Patagonia. The vague morphological limits and the existence of scarce diagnostic characters for the correct identification of the currently accepted species, implies the need for a revision of the taxonomy of the genus. The morphological and biogeographic information along with recently published morphometric analyses indicate the existence of a single polymorphic species: Q. chilense. As a result, a taxonomic treatment of the monospecific genus Quinchamalium is here presented. Valid name, synonyms, description of vegetative and reproductive morphology, and geographical distribution is provided for Q. chilense. In this study, 28 names of species or infraspecific taxa are reduced to synonymy of Q. chilense for the first time. In addition, 13 names are lectotypified and one is neotypified.