Temporal and spatial herbarium density of Favratiazoysii (Wulfen) Feer (Campanulaceae): Insights into type material and historical distribution of an alpine endemic.

Abstract

Favratiazoysii (Wulfen) Feer is a chasmophyte endemic to the south-eastern Alps and the sole representative of the genus Favratia Feer. Its primary occurrences are in Julian Alps and on Mt. Storžič (Kamnik-Savinja Alps) in Slovenia. This study aims at elucidating the original material utilised by Wulfen in the initial description of Campanulazoysii, later reclassified as F.zoysii by Feer, while also exploring the temporal and spatial density of the species' herbarium collections. To this end, we examined preserved collections from six institutions, including botanical gardens and museums. A total of 127 herbarium vouchers were analysed to identify the specimens referenced by Wulfen. This comprehensive examination of historical collections, spanning over two centuries, allowed us to designate a lectotype, thereby providing a clear typification of F.zoysii. Additionally, we analysed the frequency and geographic distribution of herbarium specimens, a concept referred to as temporal and spatial herbarium density. This combined typification and spatial-temporal analysis not only strengthens the taxonomic clarity of the species, but also provides valuable insights into its botanical history, distribution patterns and conservation needs.