Fimbristylispachmarhiensis (Cyperaceae), a new species from central India

Abstract

A new species, Fimbristylis pachmarhiensis (Cyperaceae), is described and illustrated from Pachmarhi Biosphere Reserve of Hoshangabad district, Madhya Pradesh, India. This new species bears resemblance to its closest morphological relatives, F. aestivalis and F. griffithii, but differs from both by a combination of characters, primarily including its slender culm, exceptionally lax inflorescence, cylindrical spikelets, triquetrous structure, and the presence of fine hairs covering the entire length of the style. Additionally, the achenes of this species exhibit sparse tuberculation and have a depressed apex. A detailed description, phenology, distribution, IUCN conservation status, a comparative analysis contrasting F. pachmarhiensis with its closely related species, relevant taxonomic notes and colour photographs are provided.