Distribution and taxonomic discussion of Tetraneuris verdiensis, an apparently rare edaphic endemic from the Verde Valley of Arizona

Abstract

Tetraneuris verdiensis was first published in 1996. It appears to be closely related to Tetraneuris acaulis var. arizonica. The closest known location of T. acaulis var. arizonica is approximately 7 miles northwest of the known T. verdiensis locations, which are 5 miles east of Camp Verde. Tetraneuris verdiensis is significant in that no other entirely discoid populations, or series of populations, of Tetraneuris have been reported. Tetraneuris verdiensis populations are consistently discoid, which separates them from T. acaulis var. arizonica. The type locality is on the top of a low hill of a gypsum stratum of the Late Tertiary Verde Formation. Denham and Turner (1996) stated that additional populations occur on the tops of the adjacent small hills within this stratigraphic unit. Results of a survey of all of the similar gypsum hills and mesas in this area east of Camp Verde are presented, along with population sizes for each gypsum hill where this species occurs. The morphological similarities and differences between T. verdiensis and T. acaulis var. arizonica are discussed, as well as the taxonomic status of T. verdiensis.

Parent Publication

• Southwestern rare and endangered plants: Proceedings of the Third Conference

Citation

Godec, Daniel J. 2001. Distribution and taxonomic discussion of Tetraneuris verdiensis, an apparently rare edaphic endemic from the Verde Valley of Arizona. In: Maschinski, Joyce; Holter, Louella, tech. eds. Southwestern rare and endangered plants: Proceedings of the Third Conference; 2000 September 25-28; Flagstaff, AZ. Proceedings RMRS-P-23. Fort Collins, CO: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Rocky Mountain Research Station. p. 238-248.