Bellevalia behcetii sp nov (Asparagaceae): a new species from South Eastern Anatolia, Turkey

Abstract

Bellevalia behcetii (Asparagaceae) is described and illustrated as a new species from Sirnak province in South Eastern Anatolia (Turkey). It is morphologically similar to B. paradoxa but easily differs in several morphological characters. Diagnostic morphological characters, a full description and detailed illustrations of the new species are provided. A quantitative morphometric analysis was carried out to check the diagnostic characters of Bellevalia behcetii with respect to morphologically related species. The somatic chromosome number was determined as 2n = 2x = 8 in B. behcetii. In addition, the ecology and phenology of the new species, as well as its etymology and the pollen characteristics, are presented and discussed. The conservation status of B. behcetii was assessed according to IUCN protocol. A distribution map of B. behcetii and related species is also presented.