A new annual species of Bellium (Asteraceae) from the Balearic Islands

Abstract

A new species, Bellium artrutxensis (Asteraceae: Astereae), is described from the therophytic pastures of southern Minorca (Balearic Islands). The analysis of nuclear ribosomal internal transcribed spacer (ITS) sequences showed that the new taxon was closely related to Bellium bellidioides, but differed with regard to the annual lifespan, the absence of epigeal stolons, and the presence of a patent eglandular indumentum on the leaves. The new taxon shows morphological features that are well suited for the colonization of dry environments with a marked summer drought, and may be of adaptive significance. The new species is diploid (2n = 18) and shows up to two accessory chromosomes in root tissues. B chromosomes have not been reported previously in other species of Bellium. © 2007 The Linnean Society of London.