Taxonomic revision of an Antillean group of mistletoes (Dendrophthora, Viscaceae) present in Cuba

Abstract

A taxonomic review of Dendrophthora brachyclada, D. cupressoides, D. marmeladensis, D. moniliformis, D. picotensis and D. podocarpicola in Cuba was conducted through the direct comparison and measurement of vegetative and reproductive characters, and considering geographical, ecological and altitudinal distributions and host trees. The most important morphological characters found to separate species are discussed, and an identification key for all Cuban squamate species is provided. Besides the taxonomic review, nomenclatural changes are proposed, including the designation of a syntype for D. cupressoides and third-step lectotypes for D. brachyclada, D. picotensis and D. selleana. Results suggest that D. brachyclada, D. cupressoides, D. marmeladensis, D. picotensis and D. podocarpicola are distinct species, while D. moniliformis should be recognized as a synonym of D. marmeladensis.