Stipa zeravshanica sp. nov. (Poaceae), an endemic species from rocky walls of the western Pamir Alai Mountains (middle Asia)

Researchers have discovered and described Stipa zeravshanica, a new endemic grass species found on the rocky walls of the western Pamir Alai Mountains in Tajikistan. This species, closely related to S. gracilis but distinguishable by its pilose lower awn and longer ligules, represents a significant addition to the region's flora. The study employed both macro- and micro-morphological analyses, including scanning electron microscopy (SEM) to examine lemma epidermal patterns, which effectively differentiated S. zeravshanica from three related taxa: S. gracilis, S. himalaica, and S. orientalis. Additionally, the research designated a lectotype for S. gracilis and described a new plant association, Asperulo albiflorae–Stipetum zeravshanicae, found in rocky crevices. This work enhances our understanding of biodiversity in the Pamir Alai Mountains while contributing to the taxonomy and phytosociology of the region.

Nobis, M., Nowak, A., & Nobis, A. (2013). Stipa zeravshanica sp. nov. (Poaceae), an endemic species from rocky walls of the western Pamir Alai Mountains (middle Asia). Nordic Journal of Botany, 31(6), 666–675. Portico. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1756-1051.2013.00184.x