Morphological characterization of Gloriosa katangensis Maroyi (Colchicaceae) endemic to the Democratic Republic of Congo (Kinshasa)

Abstract

Abstract Gloriosa katangensis Maroyi (Colchicaceae) is a rare and little known plant species, endemic to the Democratic Republic of Congo (Kinshasa). Results of this investigation are based on herbarium studies undertaken at the National Herbarium of the Netherlands, Wageningen University branch (WAG) and the National Herbarium and Botanic Gardens, Harare, Zimbabwe (SRGH), between January 2008 and 30 September 2011. Additional herbaria specimens of the genus Gloriosa L. were received on loan from B, BM, BR, C, COI, F, K, L, P, S, U and UPS. The diagnostic morphological characters that distinguish G. katangensis from the other Gloriosa species are discussed. Detailed description, illustration, distribution map, ecological data and taxonomic history of G. katangensis are provided. International Union for Conservation of Nature status of the species has been assigned as Critically Endangered because of the restricted area of occupancy, extent of occurrence of the species and also because none of the collections of the species made so far in the Democratic Republic of Congo has been in protected areas. Publication of detailed taxonomic information on G. katangensis contributes to a better understanding of the diversity of the genus Gloriosa in tropical Africa and the conservation of this critically endangered species.