Update on the catalogue and distribution of Meconopsis in China

doi:10.17520/biods.2024517

Abstract

Abstract:

AimsMeconopsis, the second largest genus in the Papaveraceae, is widely distributed across the Eastern Himalayas and Hengduan Mountains, and is highly valued for its ornamental qualities. Recently, numerous new taxa, based on subtle morphological differences, have been described from Xizang, Yunnan, and Sichuan, creating considerable challenges in the taxonomy of this genus. This study aims to comprehensively revise the Meconopsis species in China, clarifying their species classifications and geographical distributions, and provide an updated checklist for the genus.

Methods: This research was based on an extensive review of taxonomic literature, databases, specimen identification, and field surveys, along with molecular systematics data, to comprehensively update the catalogue of Meconopsis species in China.

Results: This study clarified the horizontal and vertical distribution ranges of the genus Meconopsis in China, as well as the county-level distribution information for each species within the genus. The study confirmed that Meconopsis in China included 61 species, 4 subspecies, and 3 varieties, with 34 endemic species. We presented an updated catalogue and identification key for the genus, as well as brief discussed on selected taxa. We synonymized several species: M. pseudointegrifolia subsp. daliensis, M. prattii, M. atrovinosa, M. biluoensis, M. lhasaensis, M. horridula subsp. drukyulensis, and M. merakensis. Meconopsis zhongdianensis was downgraded to a variety, and M. purpurea and M. pulchella var. melananthera were newly combined and also downgraded to varieties. Additionally, this paper reported two newly recorded Meconopsis species in China, M. ludlowii and M. sinuata, as well as one newly recorded Meconopsis species in Xizang, M. sherriffii.

Conclusion: Based on the latest taxonomic research findings, this study provides updated catalogue information and distribution data for the genus Meconopsis in China, offering a reference for future taxonomic studies and species conservation of Meconopsis in China. Future efforts should focus on targeted field surveys of the Meconopsis, combining morphological traits with modern molecular systematics to further refine its classification system and distribution range.

Key words: Meconopsis, taxonomy, catalogue, specimen, distribution, newly recorded species

Gaoxiang Li, Fusheng Yang, Bo Xu. Update on the catalogue and distribution of Meconopsis in China[J]. Biodiv Sci, 2025, 33(6): 24517.

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URL: https://www.biodiversity-science.net/EN/10.17520/biods.2024517

https://www.biodiversity-science.net/EN/Y2025/V33/I6/24517

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