Mazusjiangshiense (Mazaceae), a new species from China: evidence from morphological and molecular analyses.

Utilising both morphological and molecular analyses, this study unveils Mazusjiangshiense sp. nov. , a novel addition to the Mazaceae family, discovered in Shaowu County, Fujian Province, China. The comprehensive description and illustrations provided here are a result of a meticulous exploration of its morphological features. While bearing a resemblance to M.gracilis , this new-found species is distinguished by three distinct characteristics: its stems are delicately soft, its leaves possess a membranous quality and the ovary is notably villous at the apex. Integration of molecular evidence, derived from the nuclear ribosomal DNA (nrITS) and three plastid DNA sequences ( rps16 , rbcL and trnL-trnF ), unequivocally supports the classification of M.jiangshiense as a distinct species. Notably, the molecular analysis positions it as a sister species to M.spicatus , underscoring the phylogenetic relationships within the genus Mazus . Our research not only introduces M.jiangshiense as a novel taxonomic entity, but also provides a nuanced understanding of its morphological differences and molecular affinities, enriching our comprehension of the diversity and evolutionary relationships of Mazaceae.