Emelianthe purpurea (Loranthaceae), a new endemic mistletoe from Liberia

Background and aims – During fieldwork in the coastal forest of Liberia, not far east from Monrovia, a mistletoe species was found that was not yet known from this country or from its neighbouring countries. It proved to be a new Emelianthe species that is described here. Material and methods – This paper is based on examination of herbarium collections of the new species and its relatives.

The new species was also studied in the field. Standard taxonomic practices were applied. The conservation status of the new species is assessed following the IUCN Red List Categories and Criteria.

Key results – After comparing with a revision of African Loranthaceae and Viscaceae, it became clear that the new Liberian mistletoe belongs to the genus Emelianthe. However, the only species in this genus up till now, E. panganensis, is found almost 5000 km to the east in East Africa. The Liberian plant is clearly a second Emelianthe species that differs from E. panganensis by its flower colour (purple, greenish, and white vs mainly pinkish and red), its smaller anthers (ca 8 vs 13–18 mm), and style and filaments not bending during flowering.

It is the first Emelianthe species from West Africa, occurring in a relatively small area close to Monrovia in Liberia. The new species is assessed as Endangered (EN).