Morphological and molecular evidence refute a broad circumscription for Pultenaea glabra (Fabaceae: Mirbelieae), with implications for taxonomy, biogeography, and conservation

A groundbreaking taxonomic revision reveals that Pultenaea glabra, a plant species within the Greater Blue Mountains World Heritage Area, should be split into eight distinct species based on morphological and molecular evidence. This includes six newly described narrow-range endemics, five of which are confined to the heritage site and adjacent sandstone landforms. The study highlights the importance of edaphic diversity and topographic complexity in driving speciation among small, isolated populations. Additionally, it documents hybrid formation between P. glabra and P. flexilis for the first time, though introgression appears limited. These findings significantly refine our understanding of the species' distribution, habitat requirements, and conservation priorities, with implications for managing the unique biodiversity of this UNESCO-listed region.

Renner, M. A. M., Barrett, R. L., Clarke, S., Clugston, J. A. R., Wilson, T. C., & Weston, P. H. (2022). Morphological and molecular evidence refute a broad circumscription for Pultenaea glabra (Fabaceae: Mirbelieae), with implications for taxonomy, biogeography, and conservation. Australian Systematic Botany, 35(3), 225–277. https://doi.org/10.1071/sb21030