Beyond the comfort zone: Lagenophora Cass. (Astereae) in the Malvinas/Falkland Archipelago

Abstract

Lagenophora, a small genus within the Compositae family, captivates researchers with its intriguing characteristics. Its tiny size, lack of a pappus, and transpacific distribution on islands in the southern hemisphere are very unusual. Nowadays, Lagenophora comprises ca. 17 species, and its phylogenetic complexity hints at a more intricate evolutionary history. It inhabits Australia, New Zealand, Southeast Asia, India, and South America. Birds, due to sticky glands present on the fruits, may have aided in Lagenophora’s dispersal, although other vectors probably also played a role. The process of colonizing diverse habitats, especially remote islands, remains an enigma. Exploring continent-island biotic exchanges motivated a 2023 expedition to the Malvinas/Falkland Islands to collect insects, arachnids, and vascular plants. Support from FONCYT, Argentina, and a collaboration with SAERI were crucial for the success of this expedition. We found L. nudicaulis in dwarf shrub heath and montane vegetation. Although it is not a generalist plant, it has been also found in other habitats which unravels successful arrival and settling in the islands.