Moquiniastrum (Asteraceae, Gochnatioideae, Gochnatieae) in Southern Brazil

Abstract

Moquiniatrum, originally described by Cabrera as a section of Gochnatia, was raised to the category of genus after detailed molecular and morphological analysis. Moquiniastrum differs from Gochnatia by the presence of gynodioecy, indumentum of 2-5-armed hairs and the paniculate capitulescences. Moquiniastrum consists of about 21 species and occurs mainly in Brazil. Studies on the taxonomy and morphology of the genus are sparse, especially regarding the sexual disposition of capitula, thus requiring more studies. The aim of this paper was to produce a taxonomic study of Moquiniastrum in Southern Brazil, as well as to classify the species in categories of threat. This study was conducted through review of herbarium specimens and field expeditions to the Southern Brazilian states. We found 10 species of Moquiniastrum, besides three subspecies of M. polymorphum. We provide an identification key, morphological descriptions, comments on habitats, conservation and flowering and fruiting periods of the species, as well as taxonomic observations and images.

Key words:
Compositae; Gochnatia sect. Moquiniastrum; Taxonomy