A new subspecies of Stellaria alsine (Caryophyllaceae) from Yakushima, Japan

Researchers have identified a new subspecies of Stellaria alsine (Caryophyllaceae) from Yakushima, Japan. This discovery was made using MIG-seq to construct a detailed phylogenetic tree, which revealed the taxon's close relationship with S. alsine. The newly described subspecies, named Stellaria alsine subsp. nanasubsp. nov., adds to the island's rich biodiversity, further highlighting Yakushima's significance as a hotspot for endemic species. This finding contributes to our understanding of plant diversity and evolution in this unique UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Yahara, T., Hirota, S. K., Fuse, K., Sato, H., Tagane, S., & Suyama, Y. (2021). A new subspecies of Stellaria alsine (Caryophyllaceae) from Yakushima, Japan. PhytoKeys, 187, 177–188. https://doi.org/10.3897/phytokeys.187.64023