New and maintained genera in the taxonomic alliance of Prumnopitys s.l. (Podocarpaceae), and circumscription of a new genus: Pectinopitys

Scientific interest has grown over recent years in response to greatly increased perception of the phylogenetic diversity within the conifers as a whole. Much of this has been stimulated by perspectives of increased knowledge of depths of divisions amongst the many living member groupings, especially from DNA-molecular analyses. Interest includes increasing awareness of just how different and ancient have various of the coniferous divisions been, leading to long phylogenetic-autonomy for many components in major evolutionary developments, often with strong independencies across both Hemispheres. The mainly Southern Hemisphere podocarp members are emerging as one of the most diverse of overall arborescent gymnosperm groupings, and this diversity has been one which has spawned increasing interest in matching taxonomic status to phylogenetic perspectives emerging. Amongst these, the early phylogenetic divergences within the Sundacarpus-Prumnopitys alliance have become increasingly apparent. When combined with independent data from several other lines of evidence, a need for re-evaluation of the generic-boundaries within this group becomes necessary. A taxonomic revision is thus proposed here, separating a newly-named segregate genus, Pectinopitys, from the wider Prumnopitys s.l. alliance, as currently known. Consequent nomenclatural changes are given, and impact one of the species in New Zealand (where two genera here recognised are sympatric), plus those of the Australian region and several of those of the South American continent. Two fossil members from the Northern Hemisphere are also taken into account. On the above bases, main morphological features distinguishing Pectinopitys from Prumnopitys s.s. thus especially include, as 'key' main identity features, vegetative characters of leaf-type, spacing, insertion and arrangement.