A new and exceptional species of Breynia (Phyllanthaceae, Phyllantheae) from southwestern Thailand

Researchers have identified a new and exceptional species of Breynia, named B. aberrans, within the Kaeng Krachan Forest Complex in southwestern Thailand. This discovery, supported by molecular and morphological data, places the species within the subgenus Sauropus and distinguishes it with unique features such as asperities along one-sided branches, distinct leaf blade shapes, and pistillate flowers characterized by a long-ovoid ovary, sturdy style, and three upright stigmas. Unlike other Breynia species, B. aberrans is unlikely to be pollinated by Epicephala moths, suggesting a unique reproductive strategy. The study utilized a combination of nuclear (ITS, PHYC) and chloroplast markers (matK, accD-psaI, trnS-trnG) for phylogenetic reconstruction, contributing valuable insights into the biodiversity of the Kaeng Krachan National Park.

Bouman, R. W., van Welzen, P. C., & Tagane, S. (2026). A new and exceptional species of Breynia (Phyllanthaceae, Phyllantheae) from southwestern Thailand. Blumea - Biodiversity, Evolution and Biogeography of Plants. https://doi.org/10.3767/blumea.2026.70.03.03