Elucidating taxonomic status of Goodyera medogensis (Orchidaceae) based on morpho-molecular data

Abstract

Goodyera medogensis H.Z. Tian, Y.H. Tong & B.M. Wang, a recently described species of ‘Jewel orchid’ from China is reduced as a variety under Goodyera alveolata Pradhan. The morphological differences between G. medogensis and G. alveolata are not enough to treat G. medogensis as a distinct species, but as a variety. Molecular phylogenetic results based on one nuclear (ITS) and two plastid markers (matK and trnL-F) also showed close affinity between these two taxa.