Arthropodium bifurcatum (Asparagaceae), a new species from northern New Zealand

Abstract

Anthropodium bifurcatum is a new species described from northern New Zealand, being currently known from a number of mainland sites as well as offshore islands, including the Poor Knights Islands and Three Kings Islands. It is segregated from A. cirratum and distinguished from that species by its thicker and upright leaves with a fleshy white midrib, abaxial surface of the leaves with irregular protrusions, bifurcate flower bracts, and larger fruit. Amplified Fragment Length Polymorphism DNA data are congruent with morphology in supporting the revised classification. A. bifurcatum is considered to have a conservation status of “Gradual Decline” using the New Zealand Threat Classification System. © 2004 Taylor & Francis Group, LLC.