A synopsis of the Iberian clade of Linaria subsect. Versicolores (Antirrhineae, Plantaginaceae) based on integrative taxonomy

Abstract

Integrative taxonomy, based on the combination of multiple lines of evidence, provides the foundations for a robust species delimitation. Here we provide a taxonomic synopsis of the Iberian clade of Linaria subsect. Versicolores based on recently published morphometric and phylogenomic data. This clade radiated in the Iberian Peninsula (western Mediterranean) during the Quaternary, and is being intensively studied from phylogenetic, evolutionary, biogeographic, ecological and developmental standpoints. Eight morphologically and genetically distinct species are recognized in the clade: L. algarviana, L. becerrae, L. clementei, L. incarnata, L. onubensis, L. salzmannii, L. spartea and L. viscosa. For each accepted species, the type material and notes on diagnostic characters, distribution, habitat and intraspecific variability are provided. Five names are typified (four neotypes and one lectotype are designated), and references to previous typifications are also presented. A distribution map and an identification key are presented. This synopsis will provide the basis for future research on speciation and evolution of the clade.

A new combination for a neglected member of Linaria subsect. Versicolores (Plantaginaceae, Antirrhineae) endemic to the Algarve, Portugal

“…Specimens of L. viscosa var. bimaculata were described following recent taxonomic references on Iberian Linaria ( Sáez 2009 ; Fernández-Mazuecos et al 2018a ; Blanca et al 2023 ), and the chromosome number for this taxon was retrieved from Viano (1973) . Seeds were examined under an Emspira 3 digital microscope (Leica Mycrosystems) and photographed with Application Suite X (LAS X).…”

“…Wettst. comprises eight currently accepted taxa, being keyed out from the other Iberian congeners by their distinctly bifid stigma ( Fernández-Mazuecos et al 2018a ). Corolla colour divergence between parapatric or sympatric sister species and convergence in allopatric species are a hallmark of this clade ( Fernández-Mazuecos et al 2018b ).…”

“… Linaria viscosa , the type of subsection Versicolores , is endemic to Southern and Eastern Spain, while Linaria spartea is widespread in Iberia and southwestern France ( Fernández-Mazuecos et al 2018a ). The latter is renowned for accommodating significant morphological variation ( Sutton 1988 , Sáez 2009 ), which is reflected in the existence of 10 heterotypic synonyms ( POWO 2024 ), including Linaria praecox Hoffmanns.…”

“…Yet, the latest monographic works on Linaria subsect. Versicolores from the Iberian Peninsula ( Sáez 2009 ; Fernández-Mazuecos et al 2018a ) did not recognise this taxon, including it implicitly within L. spartea . As a result of all the different views on its taxonomic status, plants ascribable to Linaria viscosa var.…”

A new species of Linaria sect. Supinae from Sierra de Gredos (Sistema Central mountains, Iberian Peninsula)

“…In fact, Linaria ranks fifth among the vascular plant genera with the highest numbers of endemic species in Iberia (Buira et al, 2016). The taxonomic complexity of the genus is shown by the fact that several new species and taxonomic rearrangements have been proposed shortly after the publication of the taxonomic account for Flora iberica (Blanca et al, 2017;Blanca et al, 2018;Fernández-Mazuecos et al, 2018;Juan et al, 2018;Vigalondo et al, 2015). The highest complexity is found in Linaria sect.…”