Dendrophthoe longensis L.J. Singh, A new species of Dendrophthoe (Loranthaceae) from Andaman and Nicobar Islands, India

Abstract

Dendrophthoe longensis L.J. Singh is described as a new species from the Long Island, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, India, and its conservation status is assessed. It is an aerial branch hemi-parasite on Mangifera indica L. (Anacardiaceae), and serves as a host for caterpillars of Delias eucharis Drury (Lepidoptera: Pieridae); this could be threats to population of the new species. This new species differs from other Dendrophthoe species in vegetative morphology, inflorescence architecture, and floral characters. However, it appears apparently close to D. glabrescens (Blakely) Barlow in growth and habit. A detailed description, photographs, distribution, illustrations, and an identification key to Dendrophthoe species of India are provided.