Neolindleya Kraenzl. (Orchidaceae), an enigmatic and largely overlooked autogamous genus from temperate East Asia

The Asiatic orchid species Neolindleya camtschatica (Cham.) Nevski has been omitted from the majority of relevant taxonomic surveys, including the recent Genera Orchidacearum. In most studies where the species has been included, it has been assigned to the species-rich genera Gymnadenia or Platanthera. A few morphologists recognised a new monotypic genus, Neolindleya Kraenzl., to accommodate the species. More recent molecular phylogenetic studies showed barely sufficient molecular disparity to justify generic separation of this species, but demonstrated clearly that the genus Neolindleya is only distantly related to Gymnadenia. However, the molecular phylogenies show relationships of equal strength of Neolindleya with Galearis (including Amerorchis) on the one hand and Platanthera s.l. on the other. In an attempt to better resolve the phylogenetic placement of Neolindleya, and to more clearly understand its biology and ecology, we have re-examined the morphology of this enigmatic species. Our results, based partly on SEM studies, reinforce the validity of Neolindleya as a genus, indicate a closer relationship with Galearis s.l. than with Platanthera s.l., and strongly suggest that the species became an autogam following 'accidental' loss of a functional bursicle. Ecologically, N. camtschatica is an opportunistic species that benefits from anthropogenic habitat disturbance.