Leucheriapeteroana (Nassauvieae, Asteraceae), a new species of Leucheria endemic to the Andes of Central Chile, and insights into the systematics of Nassauviae

Abstract

A new species, Leucheriapeteroana sp. nov., endemic to a restricted area of the Andes of Central Chile, is here described. Using newly sequenced nDNA and cpDNA data, the phylogenetic affinities of Leucheria and closely related taxa within Nassauvieae are revisited. This new species shows a unique set of characters that clearly distinguish it from other species of Leucheria. Phylogenetic analyses place this perennial species close to annual species found in the pre-Andean environments of Central Chile. A detailed description, distribution map, insights about its habitat, conservation status, and photographs are provided.

Keywords: Andes; Asteraceae; Laguna Teno; Leucheria; Maule; Nassauvieae; taxonomy.