Trichosanthes sunhangii (Cucurbitaceae), a new species from Hubei, China

Scientists have identified Trichosanthes sunhangii, a new species of Cucurbitaceae, discovered in the UNESCO World Heritage Site Hubei Shennongjia Forestry District, China. This species exhibits unique morphological traits distinguishing it from related T. kirilowii and T. rosthornii, particularly in its bracts, tendrils, and fruits. Phylogenetic analysis using three DNA barcode markers (ITS, matK, and rpl20-rps12) confirmed its placement within Sect. Foliobracteola with high support (PP=1.00, BP=100, LP=100). The discovery expands the taxonomic knowledge of Cucurbitaceae in this biodiverse region.

LIU, Q., LIN, N., ZHANG, D.-G., HUANG, X.-H., WANG, H.-C., YANG, J.-Y., TOJIBAEV, K., LV, Z.-Y., DENG, T., & LI, Z.-M. (2021). Trichosanthes sunhangii (Cucurbitaceae), a new species from Hubei, China. Phytotaxa, 479(3). https://doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.479.3.5