Changes in the distribution range of Potentilla tucumanensis (Rosaceae), an endangered cryptic species

ARIAS, MARTA E.; DIAZ RICCI, JUAN C; CASTAGANARO, ATILIO P

BOLETíN DE LA SOCIEDAD ARGENTINA DE BOTáNICA

SOCIEDAD ARGENTINA DE BOTÁNICA

Lugar: Córdoba; Año: 2001 vol. 36 p. 151 - 157

0373-580X

A correct taxonomicidentification is essential for the preservation of biodiversity. In this paperwe present simple morphological characters for the identification of the newspecies recently described, Potentillatucumanensis. The reproductive period of this species occupies about 10% ofthe last part of its life cycle, is considered cryptic because in thevegetative stage is has many morphological similarities with other cohabitingrelated species; it can be easily confused with them and it is reproductivelyisolated. Our study also revealed that for the last hundred years P. tucumanensis has suffered a dramatichabitat retraction. Possible causes of this area retraction are discussed. If P. tucumanensis had not been recognizedas a new species, it would have most likely disappeared without being noticed.