Synopsis of the genus Elymus (Poaceae) in Uzbekistan (Middle Asia) with a description of Elymusuzbekistanicus a new species from Turkestan Mts.

Abstract

A synopsis of the genus Elymus in Uzbekistan, including a description of the genus and species, a key to species identification, illustrations, geographical distribution, and habitat requirements, are presented in detail. According to molecular analyses, including chloroplast and nuclear DNA data, the species forms a distinct clade with members of sect. Anthosachne. Morphologically, it is distinguished by significantly higher pubescence compared to other related species. As a result of our morphological and molecular evidence, a new species Elymusuzbekistanicus is described from the Turkestan Mts (West Pamir-Alay). It differs from the closely related E.praeruptus Tzvelev in that the upper surface of the leaf blades is densely covered with short hairs along rather prominent ribs. The axis segments of rather loose spikes are usually smooth or with scattered short spines along the ribs.