Taxonomy, Distribution, Typification, and Red List Reassessment of the Endemic Species, Euphorbia epiphylloides (Euphorbiaceae) From the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, India

Abstract

The endemic species Euphorbia epiphylloides Kurz (Euphorbiaceae) has narrow and highly fragmented distribution in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. It was previously assessed as “Endangered C2a” based on its restricted distribution and declining population in the Islands. Recent observations show a further decline of its population with the species is known to survive in the wild only in South Andaman Islands in limited numbers and under ex situ conservation. The present study records two new wild populations from South Andaman. Considering the continued population decline and habitat fragmentation, the species is reassessed applying Criteria B, C, and D as per IUCN Guidelines. As there is no type designated for the name, a lectotype has been designated from the available original herbarium specimens.