Addition of two species to the Maltese flora : Lythrum tribracteatum Salzm. ex Spreng. (Lythraceae) and Poa maroccana Nannf. (Poaceae)

Abstract

Studies on flora are crucial in investigating biodiversity, particularly in the Mediterranean region. This area is globally recognized as a biodiversity hot spot and a significant center for plant diversity (Medail and Quezel 1997). Detailed and comprehensive research has recently resulted in the discovery and description of new species over time in this territory (Selvi 2020; Mei et al. 2021; Khamar et al. 2022; Brullo et al. 2023). The Maltese Archipelago located in the central Mediterranean Sea, is renowned for its unique flora (Lanfranco 1995). Specifically, the islands of Malta, Gozo, and Comino host a remarkable variety of plants, with numerous endemic species such as Cheirolophus crassifolius (Bertol.) Susanna, Cremnophyton lanfrancoi Brullo & Pavone, and Helichrysum melitense (Pignatti) Brullo, Lanfranco, Pavone & Ronsisvalle. The Maltese flora is a combination of Mediterranean, North African, and Middle Eastern influences, reflecting the strategic geographic position and climate of the archipelago. [excerpt from the Introduction]