The phylogeny and taxonomy of Upretia (Caloplacoideae, Teloschistaceae), reveal three new species from Southwestern China

Abstract

Several specimens of Upretia from Southwest China are morphologically and phylogenetically distinct from currently recognized species in the genus. These specimens are here accommodated within a new species, Upretia zeorina Li J. Li & Printzen. It is characterized by an areolate to squamulose thallus with brown to blackish brown upper surface, pruinose, zeorine type apothecia, black discs, narrowly bacilliform conidia, and the production of gyrophoric acid. Two other specimens of Upretia from China are distinct from currently accepted species and tentatively referred to as Upretia sp. 1 and Upretia sp. 2. A key to all known species of Upretia is also provided.