Isoëtes sabatina (IsoëtaceaeLycopodiophyta), a new aquatic species from central Italy

2013

The new species Isoetes sabatina is described and illustrated. Morphological, anatomical, and ecological characters are given. It differs from the similar I. echinospora by several characters, such as megaspore ornamentation and size, microspore size, velum extension and form, and also for its ecology. A table showing the main differential characters of the new species compared with those of the other European aquatic species is presented. So far, the species is known from a single locality (Bracciano Lake, central Italy), having a peculiar ecology and within the Mediterranean bioclimate.

On the pyrophytism in the Mediterranean area

2015

Authors briefly present some observations and reflections on the “seeding strategy” of some plant species (Cistus spp., Cistaceae, in particular) in the Mediterranean area in relation to fire: they conclude it does not seem a specific adaptation to wildfires (as suggested in a relevant part of the recent literature), but a generalistic adaptation to open, high energy and variable habitats with aleatory fluctuations. The difference is important both for theoretical and applied aspects, e.g. for the correct management of Cistus species and of other Mediterranean species and habitats. Fire is undoubtedly a major ecological factor in the Mediterranean area. Many botanists have postulated the re…

The role of herbaria for taxonomic and distributional studies in Characeae: examples from the Herbarium Mediterraneum Panormitanum (PAL) and the Flor…

2018

Characeae is a taxonomically critical family. Taxonomical uncertainties inevitably affect its distributional data. The role of herbarium specimens, particularly types and original material, is crucial for unravelling taxonomical ‘knots’. Moreover, wet areas have undergone dramatic reduction and modification in the last century and historical herbarium specimens may represent basic documents for the reconstruction of former distributions. Some preliminary data from two different Italian Herbaria are here presented. The Herbarium Mediterraneum Panormitanum (PAL, the standard acronym according to the Index herbariorum, http://sweetgum.nybg.org/ ih) houses four folders of Characeae exsiccata. T…

Monitoring of alien aquatic plants in the inland waters of Sicily (Italy)

2020

Updated and reliable data on the presence and distribution of alien aquatic plant species in Sicily are lacking, and there is a need to fill this gap for a proper and efficient management of freshwater ecosystems and biodiversity. This paper reviews the available knowledge about alien aquatic vascular plants in the inland waters of Sicily (Italy). The aim is to provide an updated checklist, as a first step in the study of the impact of those plants on the native species and ecosystems of this Mediterranean island. The paper focuses on the strictly aquatic species (hydrophytes), excluding emergent macrophytes. Four species were listed, all of them free-floating and with American origin. Most…

A contribution to the phylogeny and biogeography of the genus Isoetes (Isoetaceae, Lycopodiidae) in the Mediterranean region

2019

To better understand the phylogeny of Isoetes species in the Mediterranean region, sequences of the second intron of a LFY-like homolog were determined for six populations of three Mediterranean Isoetes species and analyzed with other LFY and ITS sequences of Euro-Mediterranean species available in GenBank. Nomenclature of selected species was updated according to recent literature. Investigations of voucher specimens from previously sequenced taxa revealed that a specimen of I. histrix from Crete, Greece used in several previous molecular studies is probably I. phrygia. Analysis of the limited LFY and ITS DNA sequence data presented here agrees with the organization of Mediterranean specie…

The first confirmed population of the globally endangered Pilularia minuta (Marsileaceae) in Sicily

2016

Based on a recent collection made by the authors, the presence of the endangered Pilularia minuta Durieu in Sicily (Italy) is confirmed. Critical review of relevant literature and herbarium specimens suggests that the only previous report for the island, made in 1887, can, fairly confidently, be considered to be the result of a misidentification. There is an urgent need to protect the wetland at Anguillara (near Calatafimi), where the species was found.

Isoëtes todaroana (Isoëtaceae, Lycopodiophyta), a New Species from Sicily (Italy)

2009

Isoetes todaroana, a new species from western Sicily (Italy), is described. Morpholog- ical, anatomical and ecological characters are given. The main differential characters are the presence of only two leaf air chambers, rather than four as in all other known species of the genus, and the shape of the scales, which have two lateral rounded lobes and one central spine-like lobe, together with its peculiar calcophilic habitat. So far, the species is known from a single locality.

Revised lectotypification of the name Calendula maritima (Asteraceae)

2012

Troia, Angelo, Greuter, Werner, Raimondo, Francesco Maria (2012): Revised lectotypification of the name Calendula maritima (Asteraceae). Phytotaxa 71 (1): 48-51, DOI: 10.11646/phytotaxa.71.1.9, URL: http://biotaxa.org/Phytotaxa/article/view/phytotaxa.71.1.9

Does genetic population structure of Ambrosina bassii L. (Araceae, Ambrosineae) attest a post-Messinian land-bridge between Sicily and Africa?

2012

Abstract Aim of the present work is the analysis (through the study of enzyme polymorphism) of Sicilian and African (Tunisian) populations of Ambrosina bassii , a small perennial endemic to the Central-Western Mediterranean basin, in order to verify if the complex geological history of this part of the Mediterranean area left its mark in the present-day genetic structure of this taxon. Starch gel allozyme electrophoresis of seven putative loci of A. bassii was employed to estimate genetic diversity, genetic structure and gene flow. Populations from Sicily, Tunisia and Sardinia (as outgroup) were sampled. Results show that Sicily populations have 4 private alleles, Sardinia 3, Tunisia just o…

Micromorphological approach to the systematics of Mediterranean Isoëtes species (Isoëtaceae, Lycopodiophyta): analysis of the megaspore surface

2012

Megaspore ornamentation is one of the few morphological characters used in the taxonomy of the genus Isoëtes. In the present work, we test the application of this character for distinguishing some Isoëtes species occurring in the Mediterranean: Isoëtes sicula, which according to some authors should be included as a variety in I. histrix, and the recently described I. todaroana, whose affinity with other taxa is currently unknown. Two additional species (I. duriei, I. velata) were also included in the analysis. The megaspores were studied using scanning electron microscopy combined with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy and chemical treatment. In all species, the megaspore surface is cove…

Homage to Proserpina, or: why did the charophytes of the Pergusa Lake vanish?

2020

An important bisexual population of the charophyte Chara canescens Loisel. (Characeae, Charales, Charophyceae) was reported in the XIX century for the Pergusa Lake (Sicily). A recent field survey to check its presence revealed that it has disappeared. After a bibliographic research to understand when and why this happened, the input of freshwater from outside the basin and the introduction of the carps were identified as the two main causes for its recent extinction. Some possible management measures to try to restore the lake ecosystem are proposed.

Morphological, karyological and taxonomic remarks on Ferulago nodosa (L.) Boiss. (Apiaceae)

2012

Abstract Western (Sicilian) and eastern (Balcan-aegean) populations of the Balcan-tyrrhenian Ferulago nodosa are reported to be different in some morphological characters, and were considered different species by some authors in XIX century. In this work, fruit and pollen morphologies have been compared in Sicilian and Cretan plants; also, the chromosome number of Sicilian plants has been ascertained. Preliminary results highlight a general homogeneity between the two populations, nevertheless showing significant differences in some parameters (fruit form, pollen size). For this reason, and considering the geographic disjunction of the Sicilian plants, the two populations are proposed to be…

Investigating the ecology of Chara cf. baltica (Characeae) in the Lago Preola ecosystem (Sicily, Italy)

2018

Lago Preola is a small lake, located in SW Sicily, in a karstic depression within the Nature Reserve “Lago Preola e Gorghi Tondi”. With about 33 ha (maximum depth: 2 m), it is the widest of the 5 natural lakes occurring in the Reserve. The presence of species of conservation concern (e.g., Emys trinacris, the Sicilian Pond Turtle, and several migratory birds), but also of invasive alien species (e.g., Procambarus clarckii, the Red Swamp Crayfish), has been reported for the area. The flora of terrestrial habitats surrounding the basins has been studied extensively, while the aquatic flora and vegetation have not been studied in detail. The coastal aquifer supplying groundwater to the study a…

The ongoing naturalisation of Eucalyptus spp. in the Mediterranean Basin: new threats to native species and habitats

2019

The genus Eucalyptus has been widely introduced into many regions of the world outside its native range and has become invasive in some Mediterranean biomes (e.g. in southern Africa and California). In the Mediterranean Basin and Europe, eucalypts were introduced at the end of the 18th century. However, natural regeneration events in these regions are recent in time and limited in terms of affected areas, except for the Iberian Peninsula. An updated overview about the natural spread of Eucalyptus species in Italy is still lacking. This paper aims to fill this knowledge gap, using both published data and unpublished field data regarding naturalisation events, with a specific focus on Sicily.…

Genetic diversity and local population structure in Ambrosina bassii (Araceae, Ambrosineae), a Mediterranean relict species

2009

The effects of habitat fragmentation on the genetic structure of Ambrosina bassii are analyzed. The species, whose reproductive biology is mostly unknown, is the only representative of its genus and tribe and it is endemic to the central Mediterranean area. The selected study area was the island of Sicily, in which wild populations show a wide morphological variability and ecological amplitude. Patterns of within- and among-population genetic diversity in eleven Sicilian populations, occurring in six disjunct areas, were examined by means of allozyme electrophoresis. High levels of genetic diversity were found as shown by the mean expected heterozygosity (He ¼ 0.263), the percentage of poly…

New findings for the charophyte flora of Sicily (Italy)

2022

Nomenclatural remarks on Carex sect. Sylvaticae (Cyperaceae): C. laxula and related names

2018

Our taxonomic and nomenclatural research reveals that the name ‘Carex laxula Tineo ex Boott’ (section Sylvaticae) has not been validly published. Consequently, the oldest available name for the species is Carex paui Sennen. A lectotype for the valid name Carex sylvatica var. laxula Tineo ex Guss. is here designated.

Convergent Morphological Evolution in Silene Sect. Italicae (Caryophyllaceae) in the Mediterranean Basin

2022

Recent divergence can obscure species boundaries among closely related taxa. Silene section Italicae (Caryophyllaceae) has been taxonomically controversial, with about 30 species described. We investigate species delimitation within this section using 500 specimens sequenced for one nuclear and two plastid markers. Despite the use of a small number of genes, the large number of sequenced samples allowed confident delimitation of 50% of the species. The delimitation of other species (e.g., Silene nemoralis, S. nodulosa and S. andryalifolia) was more challenging. We confirmed that seven of the ten chasmophyte species in the section are not related to each other but are, instead, genetically c…

Typification of the names Anethum pusillum and Meum segetum (Apiaceae)

2022

Recent works (Jimenez-Mejias & Vargas 2015, Frankiewicz et al. 2021) have improved our knowledge about systematics and phylogeny of the Apiaceae: in detail, the Authors suggested the opportunity to merge several genera within Anethum Linnaeus (1753: 263), namely: Foeniculum Miller (1754: [513]), Ridolfia Moris (1841: 43), Pseudoridolfia Reduron, Mathez & S. R. Downie in Reduron et al. (2009: 496), and Schoenoselinum Jimenez-Mejias & Vargas (2015: 75). In this framework, we think that it is important to typify the names Anethum pusillum All. (Allioni 1773: 28) and Meum segetum Guss. (Gussone 1827: 346), both belonging to this “Anethum alliance” (as defined by Jimenez-Mejias &…

Staying alive on an active volcano: 80 years population dynamics of Cytisus aeolicus (Fabaceae) from Stromboli (Aeolian Islands, Italy)

2020

Abstract Cytisus aeolicus is a narrow endemic species restricted to the Aeolian archipelago (SE Tyrrhenian Sea, Italy) and it is one of the most evolutionarily isolated plants in the Mediterranean flora. Historical and literature data suggest that both metapopulations and isolated individuals of C. aeolicus are gradually shrinking. Field investigations and drone images demonstrate that the C. aeolicus metapopulation from Stromboli experienced a strikingly fast increase during the last decades. As of 2019, more than 7000 ± 3000 mature individuals occur on Stromboli, i.e. 14 to 20 times more than those counted during the last census, 25 years ago. The diachronic analysis of aerial photos conc…

The genus Isoëtes L. (Lycophyta, Isoëtaceae): Synthesis of karyological data

2001

Summary A synthesis of relevant karyological data regarding the genus Isoetes is given, with an up-to-date check list of chromosome numbers including 152 records referring to 67 taxa (62 species and 5 infraspecific taxa) and 16 hybrids. Total of different chromosome counts (considering two or more cytotypes for certain taxa, excluding hybrids) is 80. Probable base number is x = 11, even though x = 10 and x = 12 have been proposed for certain species. On the basis of data here summarized, the mean percentage of polyploidy is 61.2%; 31 taxa are diploids (38.8%), 28 are tetraploids (35.0%), 8 are hexaploids (10.0%), with a few species each which are tri-, penta-, octo-, deca- and dodeca-ploids…

Typification of names inDrabasect.Aizopsis(Cruciferae, Arabideae) based on material from Italy

2013

Names of 20 presumed taxa in Draba sect. Aizopsis, all based on material from Italy, are considered. Full synonymies are provided, and types are designated (for 14 names) or indicated. Most of the taxa are currently considered unworthy of recognition, of which 16 belong to D. aspera sensu lato. However, the question of whether the Sicilian populations might be distinct from the peninsular populations is still unsettled.

Notes on the distribution, ecology and conservation status of two very rare sedges (Carex, Cyperaceae) rediscovered in Sicily (Italy)

2017

New data on the geographical distribution and ecology of two rare taxa of Carex collected in the area of the Nebrodi Mountains (Sicily) are provided; the Sicilian populations of both taxa are at the border of their respective ranges, and their regional distribution is still poorly known. The new population of Carex x boenninghausiana reported here confirms the presence of this hybrid in Sicily, but at the same time it represents the only known population currently occurring in Italy; in fact, the other - so far only - known Italian population is considered extinct. The second report concerns Carex grioletii, recently considered doubtful for the Sicilian flora, whose new population here repo…

Conspectus of Italian Selaginella (Selaginellaceae), with some typifications

2015

An annotated synonymic inventory of Italian Selaginella taxa, a practical key for their identification and their dot distribution maps are presented, as a result of our work on the Selaginellaceae account for the Flora Critica d'Italia. The names Lycopodium helveticum L. and Selaginella denticulata var. platystachya Hieron. are typified.

Typification of the name Senecio pygmaeus (Asteraceae), with some additional taxonomic and phytogeographic remarks

2023

A thorough research on the scientific activity of Guglielmo Gasparrini, Giovanni Gussone and Augustin Pyramus De Candolle allowed the authors to adress a research in several European herbaria looking for the type of the name Senecio pygmaeus DC. The original specimen sent by Gussone and mentioned in the protologue by Candolle is still kept at G-DC and is designated as the lectotype, whilst three other herbarium sheets, preserved at NAP-GUSS, PAL and PAV herbaria respectively, in all probability belong to the same gathering, and are considered as isolectotypes. The authors provide an updated description of this taxon in order to better point out its diagnostic characters. However, further bi…

Clarifying the nomenclature of some Euro-Mediterranean quillworts ( Isoetes , Isoetaceae): Indicator species and species of conservation concern

2018

International audience; To stabilize the application of some names in the genus Isoetes in the Mediterranean biodiversity hotspot, we studied herbarium specimens and imaged spores with scanning electron microscopy, with special reference to those taxa in the I. lon‐gissima and I. histrix groups that were described from France, Algeria and Turkey, and are in need of a taxonomic revision. The following names are lectotypified: I. adspersa, I. boryana, I. delalandei, and I. viollaei. Holotypes of I. perralderiana and I. olympica were ascertained. We conclude that I. boryana (listed in the “Bern Convention” and in the European Union “Habitats” Directive) justifies consideration at species rank,…

Typification of the Linnaean name Ambrosinia bassii and other nomenclatural remarks in the genus Ambrosinia (Araceae)

2018

Although Ferdinando Bassi is the nomenclatural authority for the genus Ambrosina, the correct spelling of the name should be the Linnaean “Ambrosinia”. A lectotype is designated for A. bassii, the only species currently recognized. In addition, two lectotypes, two epitypes and one neotype are designated for other names of taxa currently treated within the infra-specific variability of A. bassii.

Pre-Linnaean illustrations as original material of Linnaean Chara names (Characeae)

2018

Wood (1960) investigated about the types of the four names of Characeae published by Linnaeus (1753) in his Species Plantarum. He focussed on the herbarium specimens forgetting the images mentioned in the protologues. Here we list and present the pre-Linnaean illustrations that have to be considered “original material” (according to the International Code of Nomenclature) for the mentioned names. Chara tomentosa L. - Wood (1960) defined the specimen 1088.1 in the herbarium LINN as “holotype”, actually it is a lectotype (as well reported in The Linnaean Plant Name Typification Project, http://www.nhm.ac.uk/ our-science/data/linnaean-typification) because of the two different figures cited in…

Genetic and phytochemical difference between some Indian and Italian plants of Whitania somnifera (L.) Dunal

2007

The geographical distribution of Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal is quite wide. However, in Italy. this species is very rare and grows spontaneously only in Sicily and in Sardinia. The PCR-RAPD technique has been utilized in this work to determine the genetic relationship among Sicilian, Sardinian and Indian samples and the HPLC analysis of whitaferin A was used as a marker to evaluate the phytochemical differences. The genetic difference between Indian and Sicilian plants of W. somnifera turned out to be smaller than that between Indian and Sardinian plants of this species. The phytochemical analysis as well showed that the Sardinian specimen strongly differed from the Indian and Sicilian on…

A reassessment of the sections of the genus Cytisus Desf. (Cytiseae, Leguminosae)

2006

Recent morphological and molecular research on Cytisus and allied genera has produced a great deal of new data relevant to systematics, which have not yet been incorporated into a consistent classification system of the genus. We have compared and evaluated recently published cladograms and phenograms based on morphological and molecular (nuclear and plastid DNA) characters. The genus Cytisus sensu lato, including Calicotome, Chamaecytisus, Chronanthus, and Lembotropis, appears to be monophyletic. A subdivision of the genus Cytisus in 13 sections is presented; one species, C. tribracteolatus, remains incertae sedis. A new section (C. sect. Dendrocytisus) and two new combinations for taxa in…

New distribution and taxonomic information on Callitriche (Plantaginaceae) in the Mediterranean region

2017

This article presents new records of water-starworts (Callitriche sp. pl.) from the Mediterranean basin, resulting from review of herbarium specimens and field work. Callitriche brutia var. naftolskyi is stated as a new combination and confirmed from Greece (Lesvos and Milos), Israel, Italy (Sardinia and Sicily), Libya, Morocco and Syria; C. lusitanica from Greece (Lesvos), Israel and Italy (Sardinia and Sicily); C. brutia var. brutia has been known from Greece for some time but is confirmed from Lesvos and Milos; C. obtusangula and C. truncata subsp. truncata are both confirmed from Sardinia and Sicily, while the latter is also confirmed from Syria. Callitriche lenisulca and C. stagnalis a…

A critical conspectus of Italian Lycopodiaceae

2015

As a result of our work on the Lycopodiaceae account for the Critical Flora of Italy, a new, synonymic inventory of Italian taxa is presented, based on herbarium studies and critical re-examination of extant literature. Three genera with eight species are accepted: Huperzia (1 species), Lycopodiella (1), and Lycopodium (6). An additional, ninth species (Lycopodiella cernua) is listed as a casual alien. The genus Diphasiastrum, accepted in several recent works, is treated at sectional level within Lycopodium (three species and their three hybrids). Lycopodium lagopus ( = L. clavatum subsp. monostachyon) is a recent addition to the Italian flora. Images of five types and Internet URI of other…

Osservazioni sulla flora pteridologica della Sicilia

2011

Biogeographia vol. XXX - 2071 (Pubblicato il 23 dicembre 2011) La Biogeografia della Sici/ia Osservazioni sulla flora pteridologica della Sicilia ANGELO TROIA, VTNCENZO ILARDI, FRANCESCO MARIA RAIMONDO Universita di Palermo - Dz'partz'mem.‘0 a’z' Biologia Ambientale e Biodiversita, via Arckirafi 38, I—90]23 Palermo (Italy); e—mail: ange[0.tr0z'a @[z'ber0.z'2f Key words: flora, pteridophytes, Lycopodiophyta, Monilophyta, ferns, Sicily SUMMARY An updated checll—list of Sicilian pteridophytes is presented: in total, there are 55 taxa, including 49 ferns in the strict sense (“monilophytes”) and 6 lycopodiophytes. Aspleniaceae is the most represented family in terms of speci…

Morphological observations on the reproductive structures of Ambrosina (Araceae), a Mediterranean endemic monotypic genus

2017

This research was carried out to better define the pollen, fruit and seed morphology of Ambrosina bassii , the only species of this rare Mediterranean endemic genus. Pollen traits were already known, but here we investigated on their variability in distant populations and in different morphotypes (‘varieties’). Fruit and seed traits were almost unknown, also because of the rarity of fruit-set in this species. The surface features of pollen, fruit and seed, as well as length, width and length/width ratio, were analysed by means of scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Comparative observations were made also on Arisarum vulgare , since Arisarum is the closest genus. The principal component anal…

Disentangling Isoetes setacea and removing threats to Isoetes echinospora

2015

The name Isoetes setacea has been applied to two different species, causing nomenclatural and taxonomic confusion. Some authors have rejected it on that account, yet it is currently used in a sense that is incompatible with its type. That type represents one of two similar species, I. echinospora and I. lacustris, which still today grow together at the type locality. An epitype is designated here, ensuring that I. setacea is sunk in synonymy under I. lacustris. A second name potentially threatening I. echinospora is I. tenella. It is currently regarded as a synonym of I. lacustris, but its type, a plate in Flora Danica, cannot be confidently identified, nor are there any specimens associate…

A critical conspectus of ItalianIsoetes(Isoetaceae)

2014

The work on the Isoetaceae account for the Critical Flora of Italy has resulted in a new, synonymic inventory of Italian Isoetes taxa, based on herbarium studies, observation by scanning electron microscopy and critical re-examination of the previously published works. Ten species are listed. The names I. longissima and I. gymnocarpa are restored as correct, to replace I. velata and I. subinermis, respectively. Eighteen lectotypes, one epitype and one neotype are designated. A dichotomous key to Italian taxa is provided.

New records of Characeae for Sicily (Italy)

2018

During the last year, the first two authors continued their survey of the scarcely known Characeae flora of the island of Sicily: plants were collected in different periods, habitats and areas of the island, and identifications – made on fresh material – were based mainly on Mouronval et al. (2015). We had the opportunity to include here some results deriving from the visit in Sicily made by Klaus van de Weyer in March 2018. Roman Romanov identified some specimens and revised some identifications. Data for Sicily are basically limited to more than one hundred years old reports; data for the national Flora have been completed with recent reports for Sardinia (cf. the work made by Ralf Becker…

Typification of the name Statice calcarae (Plumbaginaceae), basionym of the threatened endemic Limonium calcarae

2018

Limonium calcarae (basionym Statice calcarae), a rare diploid species endemic to Sicily, is one of the few members of the genus that occurs in the inland areas of the island. According to IUCN criteria, it has been assessed as critically endangered but recent data on its distribution, demography and threats affecting its populations are lacking. A lectotype is designated, preserved at PAL, and isolectotypes have been traced and verified in other European herbaria.

Mediterranean island biogeography: Analysis of fern species distribution in the system of islets around Sicily

2011

The aim of this article was to test the way in which geographical factors influence island floras in the Mediterranean basin, using ferns as target organisms, and the islands surrounding Sicily as location. A matrix with presence/absence data concerning fern taxa in the 16 islands studied was compiled. Cluster analysis, principal co-ordinates analysis (PCoA), principal components analysis (PCA) and a Bayesian analysis were performed. For each island, the total number of fern taxa was regressed against three factors: island area, island elevation and isolation. All the analyses pointed to affinities between islands according to their different geological composition, independently from their…

22nd Meeting of the Group of European Charophytologists (GEC)

2019

The 22nd Meeting of the Group of European Charophytologists (GEC) was held from 17 to 21 September 2018 in Palermo. It was convened by the International Research Group on Charophytes (IRGC) and org...

Global and Regional IUCN Red List Assessments: 13

2022

In this contribution, the conservation status assessment of two vascular plants according to IUCN categories and criteria are presented. It includes the global assessment of Isoëtes todaroana Troìa & Raimondo and Moluccella bucharica (B.Fedtsch.) Ryding.

A contribution to the characterization of Ruppia drepanensis (Ruppiaceae), a key species of threatened Mediterranean wetlands

2021

To elucidate the taxonomic status of Ruppia drepanensis Tineo ex Guss. (Alismatales, Ruppiaceae), we performed morphological analysis and DNA barcoding of historical materials (including the lectotype) and fresh samples (including those from a recently discovered population near the locus classicus in Sicily, Italy). We conclude that R. drepanensis is a separate species, closely related to R. spiralis L. ex Dumort., that occurs in temporary inland waters from the western to central sectors of the Mediterranean region. We also highlight the importance of vouchers and the need to link molecular investigations to field, ecological, and morphological investigations.

Population Structure in the Model Grass Brachypodium distachyon Is Highly Correlated with Flowering Differences across Broad Geographic Areas

2016

The small, annual grass Brachypodium distachyon (L.) Beauv., a close relative of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) and barley (Hordeum vulgare L.), is a powerful model system for cereals and bioenergy grasses. Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) of natural variation can elucidate the genetic basis of complex traits but have been so far limited in B. distachyon by the lack of large numbers of well-characterized and sufficiently diverse accessions. Here, we report on genotyping-by-sequencing (GBS) of 84 B. distachyon, seven B. hybridum, and three B. stacei accessions with diverse geographic origins including Albania, Armenia, Georgia, Italy, Spain, and Turkey. Over 90,000 high-quality single-nu…

Dispersal and colonization in heterosporous lycophytes: palynological and biogeographical notes on the genus Isoetes in the Mediterranean region

2016

After a short review of the available information on dispersal in the heterosporous genus Isoetes, which has been the subject of some mainly anecdotal or occasional observations, a case study in the Mediterranean area is presented. In the geographical context given by the island of Sicily with its satellite islets and archipelagos, the distribution of terrestrial and amphibian Isoetes species was analysed to verify if any of them occurred in the oceanic (‘thalassogenous’) islets, never connected to the mainland. The only species revealed to be able to cross the geographical and ecological barrier represented by the sea and colonize some volcanic islands was Isoetes durieui Bory, a terrestri…

IDPlanT: the Italian database of plant translocation

2021

IDPlanT is the Italian Database of Plant Translocation, an initiative of the Nature Conservation Working Group of the Italian Botanical Society. IDPlanT currently includes 185 plant translocations. The establishment of a national database on plant translocation is a key step forward in data sharing and techniques improvement in this field of plant conservation. Supplemental data for this article is available online at https://doi.org/10.1080/11263504.2021.1985004.

The ancient irrigation system of the Palermo Plain (Sicily, Italy) as a substitute ecosystem: preliminary investigations on its aquatic flora

2022

Many cities around the world are expanding, including in their perimeters green and blues spaces that could be crucial for the maintaining of biodiversity. Urban waterbodies are generally created to provide other services, but correctly managed they can provide also relevant ecosystem services. The Palermo Plain was characterized, in the past centuries, by several wetlands that were progressively destroyed (or “reclaimed”). The ancient irrigation system, probably set during the Arab domination (IX-XI century A.D.), became a substitute ecosystem able to host a significant biodiversity. Our research focused on the remains of this system, scattered in the relictual green areas of the Plain, an…

Isolation and biodiversity inCytisus villosusPourret (Fabaceae, Genisteae): enzyme polymorphism in disjunct populations

1997

ABSTRACT The genetic diversity of isolated populations of Cytisus villosus has been studied by means of enzyme polymorphism analysis. Two types of isolated populations were studied: “terrestrial islands” in Sicily, and “true islands” in the Aeolian archipelago. In the populations of “true islands” the number of alleles and the heterozygosity are lower than in “terrestrial islands”. Isolation amongst Sicilian populations seems to be more recent than isolation of the Aeolian populations, and may be attributed to climatic changes which occurred during the Holocene and/or to human activities. The disjunction of the Aeolian populations seems much more recent than the origin of the isles themselv…

Relevant habitats neglected by the Directive 92/43 EEC: the contribution of Vegetation Science for their reappraisal in Sicily

2021

Field investigation carried out by the Sicilian botanists in the last 20 years enabled them to identify eight habitat types of high biogeographic and conservation interest, neglected by the Directive 92/43, which deservead hocconservation measures. For each of these habitats, a syntaxonomic interpretation of the corresponding plant communities, their main ecological, physiognomic and syndynamic traits and a list of diagnostic species are provided. Their classification into the macrotypes listed in the Annex I of the Directive 92/43 and the respective correspondence in EUNIS habitat classification are proposed. The habitats here described integrate those already proposed by the Italian Botan…

A conspectus of and key to GreekIsoetes(Isoetaceae), based on a reassessment of Haussknecht's gatherings of 1885

2015

The three Isoetes species recorded from Thessalia (Thessaly) in N Greece by Haussknecht, in 1899, under the names I. setacea, I. heldreichii, and I. phrygia, were reassessed using megaspore and microspore ornamentation in addition to macromorphological features. “Isoetes setacea” is not the SW European I. delilei to which the name I. setacea was generally misapplied, nor “I. echinospora” as it has been called due to a misunderstanding, but a so far undescribed species here named I. haussknechtii; it has not been found again in Haussknecht’s locality but has recently turned up in Peloponnisos and the E Aegean Islands. I. heldreichii, described from Haussknecht’s gathering, is apparently exti…

Species-Specific Antioxidant Power and Bioactive Properties of the Extracts Obtained from Wild Mediterranean Calendula Spp. (Asteraceae)

2019

In this study we focused on four taxa of the genus Calendula (C. maritima, C. suffruticosa subsp. fulgida, C. arvensis, and the hybrid between the first two ones), collected in Mediterranean area (Sicily). Six extracts for each species were obtained using solvents with increasing polarity (hexane, ethanol 80%, acetone 70%, and water) and through extraction by supercritical fluids (SFE). It has been observed that the solvent with the highest extraction efficiency was ethanol 80% for all species. However, SFE extracts showed high antioxidant activity comparable to the ethanol 80% extract (polyphenol, DPPH, and reducing power method). These findings were confirmed by in vitro analysis (MTT ass…

Casparian Strips in the Leaf Intrastelar Canals of Isoetes duriei Bory, a Mediterranean Terrestrial Species

2000

Abstract Anatomical observations, using light and fluorescence microscopy, were made on leaves of Isoetes duriei to verify the presence of casparian bands around the intrastelar canals. This peculiar anatomical feature, previously reported for some Isoetes species, is confirmed. The possible role of this endodermis-like structure, in the transport of water due to root pressure or in the accumulation of certain metabolites, is discussed in relation to the ecological and anatomical features of the species.

The genus isoetes (Isoetaceae): A provisional checklist of the accepted and unresolved taxa

2016

Isoetes is a widely distributed lycophyte genus of at least 200 species occurring in diverse habitats. The species can be difficult to identify because Isoetes, with its apparent simplicity of form and conserved morphology, provides few diagnostic features to reliably distinguish its species. The last worldwide monograph, published nearly a century ago, listed 77 taxa. The first step in producing a flora or monograph of all known species of a genus is to compile a list of the acceptable species names. The list presented here is a compilation of 192 accepted names representing taxa from regions around the world: chromosome numbers were assigned to 101 of them, with polyploidy settled on 46.7…

One Chara does not make Charetea in the Mediterranean aquatic vegetation

2019

The results of preliminary phytosociological investigations on freshwater communities of Sicily biotopes with a significant presence of Characeae are presented. In spite of the relatively frequent occurrence of Characeae, a typical Charetea intermediae vegetation is rather rare in the investigated biotopes. Indeed, the Characeae are mainly part of communities attributable to the classes Potamogetonetea, Phragmito-Magnocaricetea, Juncetea maritimi and Isoeto-Nanojuncetea. Some ecological and functional implications are discussed, along with some consequences on conservation measures and policies, caused by the lack of knowledge on the Characeae of Sicily.

Studies on the Sicilian populations ofAnacolia webbii(Mont.) Schimp. (Bartramiaceae, Bryophyta), rare moss in Europe

2014

New data on the distribution, biology, intra- and inter-population variability and conservation state of Sicilian populations of Anacolia webbii are provided. Two new localities are reported, so that total five fragmented populations occur in the island, all of them in a rather small area in the western part of the province of Palermo. They live on wet limestone or sandstone cliffs with base at 900–1200 m a.s.l. and N, N-NE aspect, within communities of Aceri campestris-Querco-ilicis sigmetum. The plants are particularly vigorous, but some data suggest a condition of vulnerability of the populations. In fact, in addition to specificity to a rare habitat on the island, a morphometric and all…

Hybridization and competition between the endangered sea marigold (Calendula maritima, Asteraceae) and a more common congener

2013

Occurrences of hybridization between the rare, endangered Sicilian endemic, Calendula maritima, and other congeners in the wild have been suspected by several authors, but never demonstrated. In San Cusumano (Trapani), one of the only three Sicilian mainland populations, C. maritima occurs in close proximity to the more common congener C. suffruticosa subsp. fulgida, and individuals morphologically intermediate between the two taxa have been observed. In order to determine whether hybridization is occurring at this site, and, if so, begin to assess the impact it could have on C. maritima, two independent tests of hybridity were conducted by studying (1) the pollen morphology and viability a…

Genetic diversity in Cytisus aeolicus Guss. (Leguminosae), a rare endemite of the Italian flora

1998

ABSTRACT Cytisus aeolicus Guss, is an endemic plant restricted to the isles of Vulcano, Stromboli and Alicudi in the Aeolian archipelago. All known populations were assayed for genetic variability using enzyme polymorphism. Allozyme variation at 16 loci coding for 10 enzyme systems was examined. The great majority of loci turned out to be monomorphic or fixed heterozygous. The observed genetic depauperation is indicative of historical factors, such as the bottleneck effect associated with migration, and the founder effect in population re-establishment. The low genetic diversity is largely partitioned within rather than among populations, indicating that extant populations have not been est…

Taxa a rischio nella flora vascolare della Sicilia

2011

Biogeographia vol. XgO( - 2011 (Pubblicato il 23 dicembre 2011) La Biogeografia de/Ia Sicilia Taxa a rischio nella flora vascolare della Sicilia FRANCESCO MARIA RAIMONDO, GIUSEPPE BAZAN, ANGELO TROIA Dzjzartimento di Biologia Ambientale e Biodiversitd, Universird di Palermo via Arc/aimfi 38, 90123 Palermo (Italy) Key words: threatened species, vascular flora, red list, Sicily. SUMMARY An analysis was made to update the regional red list of endangered vascular plants in Sicily which, with 3,252 taxa (including a noteworthy number of endemic species), is one of the richest areas in the Mediterranean region. Considering previous regional and national red lists, recent taxonomic and floristic lite…

Reviewing the identity of the Maltese Polypodium (Polypodiaceae) – new evidence from morphology and flow cytometry

2020

The first record of Polypodium from Gozo (Maltese Islands) was described as a new endemic taxon, Polypodium vulgare subsp. melitense, based on its unique set of morphological characters. It was treated as a novelty and designated as a subspecies of P. vulgare mainly due to the lack of paraphyses, the presence of 10–16 annular cells, and a mean spore length of 64 μm. The fern was reassessed by us employing a more rigid morphological analysis and the application of flow cytometry. The absence of paraphyses was confirmed, but the number of annular cells (5–11) and the spore length (70–79 μm) differed from the previous study. These and other morphological traits, the phenology (leaf-shedding in…

The Isoetes longissima complex (Isoetaceae) in Italy: observations on the morphology of spores and leaves, and taxonomic implications

2014

The morphological variability of the Isoetes longissima complex in Italy has been analyzed, on the basis of selected herbarium specimens. Observations were made on spore ornamentation and size, number of leaves per plant and maximum leaf length, velum extension and alae width in the basal portion of leaves. The first count of chromosome number on plants from Italy is also made. On the basis of our observations, the five taxa here considered are attributed to two taxa, treated at the species level as follows: I. longissima (incl. I. velata and I. velata [unranked] sicula), and I. tiguliana (incl. I. dubia). Italian distribution of these species is also given.

Macrophytes in Inland Waters: From Knowledge to Management

2023

The huge biodiversity of inland waters and the many different aquatic habitats or ecosystems occurring there are particularly threatened by human impacts. In this Special Issue, ten articles have been collected that show new data on the distribution and ecology of some rare aquatic macrophytes, including both vascular plants and charophytes, but also on the use of these organisms for the monitoring, management, and restoration of wetlands.

Brassica tardarae (Brassicaceae), a New Species from a Noteworthy Biotope of South-Western Sicily (Italy)

2020

A new species of Brassica sect. Brassica is described here from Sicily (Italy), which is known to be one of the centers of the diversification of wild taxa of this group. The new species (named Brassica tardarae) is restricted to the carbonate cliffs in the Tardara Gorges between Menfi and Sambuca di Sicilia (Agrigento province), an area with a peculiar geological history and where another strictly endemic species was recently described. The morphological relationships between the new species and other similar taxa are discussed, and an analytical key to the Sicilian taxa belonging to the genus Brassica sect. Brassica is also provided.

Biometrical and ecological observations on Cistus salvifolius L.

1993

Abstract Biometrical observations on Cistus salvifolius L. (Cistaceae), a species with a very variable morphology, are presented: data, collected in Sicily, are relative to three environments in which populations of Cistus salvifolius live: garigue, maquis, pinewood. Measurements are compared with other ones, found in the literature, and in some cases they disagree or supply useful indications. On the basis of the different light regimes in the three environments, and of the parameters in which the difference among the three populations is most evident, some observations about the reaction to shade in Cistus salvifolius were made. On the basis of the few data collected, the intraspecific di…

European Red List of Lycopods and Ferns

2017

In recent years, awareness has risen surrounding the crucial role of plants in providing ecosystem services and on their decline – they are one of the essential foundations of healthy ecosystems that we depend on. However, significant gaps in knowledge still remain. In this context, the European Red List of lycopods and ferns provides the first ever comprehensive assessment of the extinction risk of all native lycopod and fern species to Europe. With 194 species assessed, this assessment highlights that 19.9% of lycopod and fern species are threatened with extinction in Europe. This is mainly due to urban and infrastructure development, human intrusions and disturbance, pollution, and water…

Isoëtes sabatina (Isoëtaceae, Lycopodiopsida). Taxonomic distinctness and preliminary ecological insights

2021

1) Isoëtes sabatina is the rarest aquatic quillwort in Europe. Although recently found (2013) in Lake Bracciano (central Italy), the species is just one step away from extinction with an estimated population not exceeding 400 individuals and a spatial range of a few hundred square metres. 2) Lake Bracciano is a deep, oligo-mesotrophic Mediterranean volcanic lake that has been subjected to human activities. From January to October 2017, the lake experienced a dramatic water level decrease (up to −1.50 m), which significantly affected the littoral zone and the habitat of I. sabatina. 3) To improve the chances of survival of I. sabatina, the first eco-taxonomic investigation on this species wa…

New records and observations to the Characean flora (Charales, Charophyceae) of Sicily (Italy)

2019

New records to the Characean flora of Sicily are presented. Five species (Chara baltica, C. conimbrigensis, C. oedophylla, Nitella gracilis, Tolypella salina) are new to Sicily, two of them being also new to Italy (Chara conimbrigensis, C. oedophylla). Two species are confirmed for Sicily (Chara aspera, Nitella opaca), three (Chara braunii, C. canescens, Nitella capillaris) are rare taxa. The Characean flora of Sicily, updated with these records, currently includes 25 species, distributed in four genera: Chara (13 species), Nitella (eight species), Tolypella (three species) and Lamprothamnium (one species).

Morphological observations on the co-occurring geophytes Isoetes duriei Bory (Lycophyta, Isoetaceae) and Romulea columnae Sebast. et Mauri (Anthophyt…

2003

Some preliminary observations on the morphoplogy and leaf anatomy of two geophytes, Isoetes duriei and Romulea columnae, co-occurring in a Mediterranean temporary pond, have been reported. The species examined possess characters favourable to the survival of both flooded and arid conditions. The adaptive traits to flooding appear plastic in R. columnae, while I. duriei is “structurally” an aquatic plant. Evolutionary and ecological aspects are briefly discussed.

Aquatic Macrophytes Occurrence in Mediterranean Farm Ponds: Preliminary Investigations in North-Western Sicily (Italy)

2021

Mediterranean wetlands are severely affected by habitat degradation and related loss of biodiversity. In this scenario, the wide number of artificial farm ponds can play a significant role in the biodiversity conservation of aquatic flora. In the present contribution we show the preliminary results of a study on Mediterranean farm ponds of north-western Sicily (Italy), aimed to investigating the environmental factors linked to the occurrence of submerged macrophytes (vascular plants and charophytes). We studied the aquatic flora of 30 ponds and determined the chemical and isotopic composition of their water bodies on a subset of the most representative 10 sites. Results show that (1) farm p…

22nd Meeting of the Group of European Charophytologists (GEC), Palermo, Italy 17-21 September 2018, Programme & Abstracts

2018

Macrophytes in Inland Waters - From Knowledge to Management

2023

Diversity of Draba L. sect. Aizopsis DC. (Brassicaceae) in Sicily

2008

Aspetti genetici di un progetto di rinaturazione con Quercus coccifera L. s.l. nella Riserva Naturale Orientata "Saline di Trapani e Paceco"

2004

Studio della struttura genetica di Ambrosina bassii L. (Araceae, Ambrosineae) in Sicilia, attraverso l’analisi del polimorfismo enzimatico

2008

La corretta citazione del nome "Cytisus aeolicus" (Fabaceae), e sua tipificazione

1999

Re-evaluation and typification of Foeniculum piperitum (Apiaceae), an underknown medicinal plant and crop wild relative

2021

Foeniculum piperitum was described as Anethum piperitum based on plants collected in Sicily, Italy. Currently it is treated either as a synonym of Foeniculum vulgare, or as one of two subspecies within that taxon. Here we show that F. vulgare and F. piperitum are two different, sometimes co-occurring, taxa and that given clear morphological and ecological separation, they should be treated as distinct species. Anethum piperitum is typified. Owing to misapplication of names and wrong synonymizations, the ecology and chorology of F. vulgare and F. piperitum have to be better defined.

Contributo alla flora critica d'Italia: i generi della famiglia Lycopodiaceae

2012

Ibridazione interspecifica nel genere Quercus L. (Fagaceae): il caso di Quercus soluntina Tin. ex Lojac.

2009

Isoetes L. In: Raab-Straube E. von & Raus Th. (ed.): Euro+Med-Checklist Notulae, 3 [Notulae ad floram euro-mediterraneam pertinentes 32]

2014

Note corologiche e tassonomiche sul genere Isoëtes L. (Isoëtaceae, Lycophyta) in Sicilia

2005

(2292) Proposal to conserve the name Palhinhaea against Lepidotis (Lycopodiaceae)

2014

Preliminary checklist of the Italian gypsophilous flora

2016

The richness and uniqueness of the flora growing on gypsum substrates in Italy is known since the XIX century (Macchiati, 1888). Furthermore, the concept of plant gypsophily can be defined as the exclusiveness (or virtually exclusiveness) for living in gypsum outcropping rocks. Thus only those plant species, which show preference – or even exclusivity - for gypsum substrates, would be classified as gipsophilous (Mota et al., 2011). The main aim of this research has been the elaboration of a checklist of the Italian gypsophilous flora. The study was made possible through international collaboration between the "Mediterranea" University of Reggio Calabria (Italy) and the University of Almería…

Contributo alla Flora Critica d'Italia: le specie del genere Isoetes

2013

NUOVE AREE DI RILEVANTE INTERESSE NATURALISTICO NELLA SICILIA CENTRO-OCCIDENTALE: PROPOSTA DI TUTELA

2011

New areas of outstanding natural importance in central-western Sicily: a proposal for their conser- vation. With a view to the expected updating of the Sites of Community Importance (SCI) and the following designation of the Special Areas of Conservation (SAC) by the Italian Ministry according to the Council Directive 92/43/EEC, some areas of outstanding natural importance in central-west- ern Sicily, currently not protected, are identified and described. Fifteen areas of various sizes are located in five different provinces (Trapani, Palermo, Agrigento, Caltanissetta and Enna); here sev- eral habitats of Community interest, including some prioritary ones, and numerous endemic and/or rare s…

Draba aizoides L. s.l. (Brassicaceae, Arabideae) al suo limite distributivo: variabilità ecologica, morfologica e genetica dei popolamenti siciliani

2010

Checklist of gypsophilous vascular flora in Italy

2018

Our understanding of the richness and uniqueness of the flora growing on gypsum substrates in Italy has grown significantly since the 19th century and, even today, new plant species are still being discovered. However, the plants and plant communities, growing on gypsum substrates in Italy, are still a relatively unknown subject. The main aim of this paper was to elaborate a checklist of the Italian gypsophilous flora, to increase knowledge about this peculiar flora and for which conservation efforts need to be addressed. Through a structured group communication process of experts (application of the Delphi technique), a remarkable number of experienced Italian botanists have joined togethe…

Biologia riproduttiva in Ambrosina bassii L. (Araceae, Ambrosineae): osservazioni sulla fenologia e sulla morfologia del seme

2009

Note biografiche e bibliografiche su Michele Lojacono-Pojero (1850-1919)

2007

Osservazioni sul polline di popolazioni siciliane di ambrosinia basii L. (Araceae, Ambrosineae)

2008

An updated catalogue of chromosome numbers in the genus Isoetes L. (Isoetaceae, Lycopodiophyta)

2010

Schede per una Lista Rossa della Flora vascolare e crittogamica Italiana: Eokochia saxicola (Guss.) Freitag et G. Kadereit

2012

BIOSFERA

2009

The temporary wetland complex of Anguillara and its key role for the botanical heritage of western Sicily

2016

Temporary wetlands are endangered throughout the entire Mediterranean area (1). Contrary to the permanent wetlands, that (usually) cover larger surfaces and are now protected after a long period of siege and ‘reclamation’ attempts, temporary ponds and wetlands are small, scattered areas still under pressure and threatened by human activities. This fact represents a serious threat for biodiversity, since many species only occur in these peculiar sites. To secure their protection Mediterranean temporary ponds are listed as “priority habitat” in the EU “Habitats” Directive (92/43/EEC). The temporary ponds of Anguillara, located near Calatafimi in Western Sicily, host a huge amount of rare plan…

Approccio micromorfologico alla sistematica del genere Isoëtes (Isoëtaceae, Lycopodiophyta): analisi della superficie delle megaspore

2011

The role of Characeae in the communities of the vegetation class Potametea

2018

The stonewort vegetation is commonly classified into the phytosociological class Charetea fragilis F. Fukarek ex Krausch 1964; however, the Characeae are not exclusively found in vegetation stands ascribed to this class but also in other habitat types. In our preliminary investigations, we draw the attention to the relationship between the classes Charetea fragilis and Potametea pectinati Klika in Klika & Novák 1941 in some Sicilian biotopes. In some cases, the Charetea vegetation is ecologically and spatially distinct, although close, from that referable to the Potametea. In some other cases, one or more species of Characeae are structurally intrinsic to the vegetation of Potametea: on…

Towards a Critical Flora of Italy: Assessing the Lycopodiophyta

2013

Analisi della distribuzione delle Monilofite omosporee nelle isole circumsiciliane

2009

Schede per una Lista Rossa della Flora vascolare e crittogamica Italiana: Silene hicesiae Brullo & Signorello

2011

Segnalazione di Ziziphus lotus (L.) Lam. (Rhamnaceae) nei pressi di Mazara del Vallo (Trapani, Sicilia)

2006

Conferma della presenza nella Sicilia occidentale di Retama raetam (Forssk.) Webb subsp. gussonei (Webb) W. Greuter (Fabaceae Cytiseae), specie a ris…

2009

I pantani di Anguillara (Calatafimi Segesta, Trapani): dati preliminari sulla biodiversità a supporto della tutela del biotopo

2016

Vengono presentati i risultati preliminari di una indagine multidisciplinare condotta in una zona umida nel territorio di Calatafimi Segesta in provincia di Trapani. L'area è di grande interesse per la presenza di rare specie animali e vegetali, di habitat minacciati tutelati da normative nazionali ed internazionali, ma anche perché è una delle ultime zone umide superstiti dell'entroterra trapanese. L'area ha subito in tempi recenti un pesante disturbo antropico che rischia di portare alla distruzione questo ambiente e il suo biota di pregio. Con questo contributo gli autori intendono supportare la richiesta di adeguata e urgente tutela del sito. Anguillara Ponds (Calatafimi Segesta, Trapan…

Proposals of Plant Micro-Reserves in Sicily (Italy)

2013

Insular endemism in the Mediterranean vascular flora: the case of the Aeolian Islands (Sicily, Italy)

2012

The present paper briefly provides the state of the art of the knowledge on vascular plant endemism in the oceanic (“thalassogenous”) Aeolian Archipelago (Sicily). Preliminary analysis of distribution areas and review of recent literature on biosystematics of endemic species revealed that: (a) Aeolian strictly endemic taxa are just 6, i.e. about the 0.7 % of the local vascular flora; among them, just 4 can be considered (with doubt) derived from in situ evolution. (b) The other 18 endemics are taxa occurring in wider areas, so they cannot be generally considered “locally evolved” but relicts. This preliminary analysis confirms that not only continental (“chersogenous”) but all Mediterranean…

BIOSFERA

2010

Lycopodiidae for the “Flora Critica d’Italia”: material and methods

2015

Procedures are presented that were followed during the preparation of the first pteridophyte family treatments for the “Flora Critica d’Italia”: Lycopodiaceae, Isoetaceae, Selaginellaceae. The work was mainly based on the study of literature and herbarium specimens. In some cases SEM observation of spores has proved useful. Data collected from herbarium specimens and other verified sources were loaded into a database, from which a distribution map was prepared for each taxon. Several preliminary papers have been published, and for each family a taxonomic conspectus, with type designations, maps and an identification key, has been prepared. The treatment of these three families for the “Flor…

Genetic variability of the endangered island endemic Silene hicesiae Brullo & Signorello (Caryophyllaceae): preliminary results

2004

On the presence, distribution and conservation status of Lycopodium lagopus (Lycopodiaceae) in Italy

2014

During our work on the Lycopodiaceae account for the upcoming Flora Critica d’Italia (1, 2), we assessed and accepted the presence in Italy of Lycopodium lagopus (Laest. ex Hartm.) Zinserl. ex Kuzen. = L. clavatum subsp. monostachyon (Grev. & Hook.) Selander (2). Already reported by Fiori (3) as L. clavatum f. monostachyum Desv., its presence in Italy was more recently confirmed by Tribsch & Schönswetter (4) and accepted in some subsequent regional works (e.g. 5, 6), but the taxon is not recognized as distinct in the last national checklist of vascular plants (7). Lycopodium lagopus has an arctic-alpine distribution in America and Eurasia (8, 9). Initially described as a variety of L. clava…

Towards a checklist of the Italian gypsophilous vascular flora.

2016

The strict relationship between plants and particular types of substrate has long been known to botanists and plant ecologists who have dealt with this issue. The peculiar flora growing on Italian gypsum substrates has been underlined since the nineteenth century (1, 2, 3). The concept of plant gypsophily can be defined as the exclusiveness or marked preference for living on gypsum outcropping rocks. Thus, only those plant species which show preference, or even exclusivity, for gypsum substrates, should be classified as gypsophilous (4). The main aim of this research has been to provide a checklist of the Italian gypsophilous flora. The study was made possible through international collabor…

Conferma della presenza di Isoëtes velata A. Braun (Isoëtaceae, Lycopodiophyta) nella Sicilia occidentale

2010

Report 1751. Isoetes todaroana Troia & Raimondo. In: Kamari, G., Blanché, C. & Siljak-Yakovlev, S. (eds): Mediterranean chromosome number reports

2011

Presentazione / Foreword

2011

Preliminary results of EOLIFE99, a project concerning the conservation of four endangered plant species of Aeolian Archipelago (South Tyrrhenian Sea,…

2005

Charophytes for description and monitoring of inland waters in Sicily

2017

The island of Sicily, in the center of the Mediterranean basin, is a well-known biodiversity hotspot (Médail & Quézel, 1997). Unfortunately, the knowledge of its charophyte flora is absolutely unsatisfactory. The few available data derive from some scattered phytosociological works and some articles published more than 100 years ago. According to the last national synthesis (Bazzichelli & Abdelahad, 2009) a total of 19 Charophytes species should occur in the island, distributed in 4 genera: Chara L. (11), Nitella Agardh (5), Tolypella (A. Braun) A. Braun (2) and Lamprothamnium J. Groves (1). However an updated list of the species occurring in the island, together with their distribu…

Monitoraggio e tutela del patrimonio floristico delle Saline di Trapani e Paceco

2004

The impact of alien vascular plants in the aquatic habitats of a mediterranean island: preliminary data and observations in Sicily

2016

As is well known, invasive alien species pose a major global threat to the conservation of biodiversity, causing the extinction of native species and modifying ecosystem functions: this is true also for aquatic habitats, particularly susceptible to invasion due to usually high disturbance regimes and easy dispersal of propagules. The island of Sicily is one of the main hotspots of plant biodiversity, in the center of the Mediterranean basin; it hosts different types of freshwater habitats, both lentic (coastal wetlands, saltworks, temporary ponds, lakes, reservoirs) and lotic (springs, streams, permanent and seasonal rivers). As a first step of our analysis of the effects of the alien vascu…

La flora vascolare della Riserva Naturale Orientata “Saline di Trapani e Paceco” (TP)

2006

Strategie di gestione delle popolazioni di Calendula maritima Guss. (Asteraceae)

2011

Dopo avere brevemente esaminato la situazione in cui si trovano le popolazioni naturali di C. maritima, specie rara ed endemica della provincia di Trapani (Sicilia), si discute delle più opportune strategie di gestione al fine di assicurarne la conservazione. Vengono infine identificate le principali minacce e proposte le conseguenti necessarie azioni di tutela.

ANCESTRALITY OR MORPHOLOGICAL CONVERGENCE IN THE MOLLISSIMA AND ITALICA GROUPS OF SILENE IN THE WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN BASIN

2010

Relazioni genetiche e filogeografiche tra popolamenti di Ambrosina bassii L. (Araceae, Ambrosineae) nel mediterraneo centrale

2010

Karyological observations on Isoetes duriei Bory (Lycophyta, Isoetaceae) in Sicily

2001

Reports (1815-1816), in: Kamari G, Blanché C, Silijak-Yakovlev S (eds.) Mediterranean chromosome number reports - 23.

2013

Isoetaceae (versione 1.0)

2015

Calandra e Citizen Science: lo status della popolazione siciliana

2019

Supplementary material 1 from: Musarella CM, Mendoza-Fernández AJ, Mota JF, Alessandrini A, Bacchetta G, Brullo S, Caldarella O, Ciaschetti G, Conti …

2018

Plant species data :

IDPlanT: the Italian database of plant translocation

2021

IDPlanT is the Italian Database of Plant Translocation, an initiative of the Nature Conservation Working Group of the Italian Botanical Society. IDPlanT currently includes 185 plant translocations. The establishment of a national database on plant translocation is a key step forward in data sharing and techniques improvement in this field of plant conservation. Supplemental data for this article is available online at https://doi.org/10.1080/11263504.2021.1985004 .

Supplementary material 2 from: Musarella CM, Mendoza-Fernández AJ, Mota JF, Alessandrini A, Bacchetta G, Brullo S, Caldarella O, Ciaschetti G, Conti …

2018

ANOVA analysis by gypsophily level :