First Record of Cyclospermum leptophyllum (Apiaceae) in Saudi Arabia: Biogeographical Significance and Floristic Implications for the Arabian Peninsula
TL;DR
A comprehensive review of floristic literature and biodiversity databases confirms that this is the first record of both Cyclospermum and C. leptophyllum for the flora of Saudi Arabia.
Abstract
Cyclospermum leptophyllum (Apiaceae) is reported for the first time from Saudi Arabia based on field collections from four populations in the Taif highlands. The identity of the species was confirmed through morphological comparison with relevant floras, herbarium material, and online taxonomic resources. The species was recorded in irrigated urban and peri-urban habitats at elevations of 1690–2100 m a.s.l., co-occurring with ruderal and moisture-associated vegetation. We provide a taxonomic description, voucher information, photographic documentation of diagnostic, a comparative analysis with similar regional Apiaceae, and a dichotomous key to facilitate identification. A comprehensive review of floristic literature and biodiversity databases confirms that this is the first record of both Cyclospermum and C. leptophyllum for the flora of Saudi Arabia. Based on the current study, C. leptophyllum is currently categorized as a casual alien species in Saudi Arabia. While four spatially separated reproductive populations were observed, data from a single growing season are insufficient to confirm multi-generational persistence required for naturalized status. We provide a taxonomic description, voucher information, field observations on habitat, phenology and associated vegetation, photographic documentation of diagnostic characters, a comparison with morphologically similar regional taxa, and a dichotomous key to facilitate identification.