Taxonomic revision and biogeography of the Memecylaceae of Thailand
Lahiru S. Wijedasa1,2, Mark Hughes1 and Mark Newman1
1
Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh
2
Singapore Botanic Gardens
In this study, we have focused on key floral and vegetative characters to
develop a framework for revision of the Memecylaceae of Thailand. Close study of
the flowers has allowed us effectively identify species and resolve species complexes.
The preliminary checklist of Memecylaceae occurring in Thailand based on
current literature listed 23 species and 9 varieties. Based on the current study 30
species are recorded in Thailand along with 10 varieties. This includes six new
species, two new varieties and one new combination. Twenty five species names were
placed in synonymy while 40 species names were lectotypified. The taxonomic
identity of 2242 specimens was determined or confirmed.
Our preliminary biogeographic assessment shows that the family has three
distinct groups: a northern group (N, NE, C, E and SE floristic provinces) that has
affinities to the Indochinese floristic region, a southern group (S and SW floristic
provinces) with affinities to the Malesian region and a widespread group found in
both regions.