The status of the mistletoe genus Dufrenoya Chatin (Amphorogynaceae) with a specific focus on Nepal

The genus Dufrenoya Chatin (Amphorogynaceae) is a rarely collected and studied aerial parasite found of southeastern Asia. Our goal is to provide a modern treatment of the genus for Nepal where two species occur: D. platyphylla (the type of the genus), and D. granulata. Fresh, fixed, and dried material of the former species and herbarium material of the latter was examined and used to prepare morphological descriptions. In addition, the ITS rDNA region was sequenced and phylogenetic analyses conducted on five genera of Amphorogynaceae. Strong support for the sister relationship between Dufrenoya and Phacellaria was obtained. The complex nomenclatural history of Dufrenoya is reviewed and discussed in the context of intergeneric relationships in the family. The morphology and anatomy of flowers and fruits are photographically illustrated and discussed. Collections of both species plotted on a map of Nepal showing ecological zones and physiographic regions indicates Dufrenoya is primarily distributed in the Middle Mountains region.