NOMENCLATURAL TRANSFERS IN EAST MALESIAN MYRSINE (MYRSINACEAE), AND THE DESCRIPTION OF M. WARRAE, A DISTINCTIVE NEW SPECIES FROM ULTRABASIC ENVIRONMENTS IN PAPUA NEW GUINEA

Abstract

Recent studies in the palaeotropics indicate that Rapanea cannot be maintained as a separate genus from Myrsine (Myrsinaceae). Based on the latest evidence from comparative morphology, Papuasian Rapanea are thus transferred to Myrsine. The nomenclatural adjustment provides a foundation for future additions to the enlarged genus, previously represented by only three of the required binomials.After the establishment of a complete set of Myrsine names for eastern Malesia, M. warrae W.N.Takeuchi & Pipoly is added to the redefined conspectus. The new plant is distinguished by large leaves, rostrate fruits, and an apparent restriction to ultrabasic substrates.