Taxonomic Studies of Diospyros (Ebenaceae) from the Malagasy Region. X. Diospyros madagascariensis, a New Combination for the Malagasy Populations Previously Included in D. ferrea

Abstract

The widespread and variable taxon currently recognized as Diospyros ferrea (Willd.) Bakh. is said to extend from West Africa through tropical Asia to northern Melanesia, but comparison of material from Madagascar with collections from the region where the type was collected (Southwest India) clearly shows that they represent different species. Examination of material from continental Africa and other parts of the range of D. ferrea s.l. further confirms that the Malagasy populations constitute a distinct entity endemic to this island nation, prompting us to establish the new combination D. madagascariensis (A. DC.) E. Mestre & H. N. Rakouth based on Maba madagascariensis A. DC. We summarize the main characters that distinguish D. madagascariensis from D. ferrea s. str. and provide information on its phenology, local names, and exploitation, primarily as a source of ebony wood. A risk of extinction assessment of D. madagascariensis based on the IUCN Red List criteria indicates that its status is “Least Concern.”