Ephedra strongylensis (Ephedraceae), a new species from Aeolian islands (Sicily)

Ephedra strongylensis, a new species from the islands of Stromboli and Strombolicchio (Aeolian Archipelago, Sicily), is described and illustrated. It is morphologically well differentiated from the other species occurring in the Mediterranean territories, showing some relationships especially with Ephedra aurea, chiefly for the articles scabrous-wrinkled and not fragile at the nodes. However, significant features distinguish the new species from the latter, chiefly regarding the size and shape of twigs, leaves, male and female cones, ovules, seeds, fruiting strobili and pollen grains. Its ecology, conservation status and taxonomic considerations with other allied Mediterranean species are provided too.

Automated summary

This paper describes and illustrates a new species named Ephedra strongylensis found in the islands of Stromboli and Strombolicchio in the Aeolian Archipelago, Sicily. The new species is morphologically distinct from other species in the Mediterranean, especially Ephedra aurea, but shows some similarities in terms of scabrous-wrinkled articles and not fragile nodes. However, significant differences in twig size and shape, leaves, male and female cones, ovules, seeds, fruiting strobili, and pollen grains can be used to differentiate this new species. The paper also provides information on the ecology, conservation status, and taxonomic considerations with other related Mediterranean species.