NEW RECORDS OF MICONIA DEPENDENS (MELASTOMATACEAE) IN PENINSULAR MALAYSIA

Abstract

Miconia dependens (Pav. ex D. Don) Judd & Majure is reported as a new record for Peninsular Malaysia, with documented occurrences in the states of Pahang, Johor, and Selangor. This species has likely been overlooked in the region due to its morphological similarity to Miconia crenata (Vahl) Michelang. (syn. Clidemia hirta (L.) D. Don), a widespread invasive weed in Malaysia. A comprehensive review of herbarium collections at KEP revealed no specimens matching M. dependens, and searches of online databases similarly yielded no records of the species in Malaysia, suggesting its recent introduction. This finding aligns with its first documented occurrence in Singapore in 2018. To aid in accurate identification, this study provides detailed morphological descriptions, diagnostic photographs, and comparative analyses with closely related taxa, emphasizing key distinguishing characteristics. These contributions aim to enhance taxonomic clarity and support future efforts in species identification and management.