A SYNOPSIS OF ZANNICHELLIA L. (POTAMOGETONACEAE) IN IRAN

Zannichellia L. (Potamogetonaceae) is a cosmopolitan genus widely distributed in aquatic ecosystems of Iran. The last taxonomic treatment of this genus dates back to 1971 in Flora Iranica, with some recent modifications in Flora of Iran. This research aimed to provide a new taxonomic treatment of Zannichellia in Iran based on distributional, morphological, and molecular studies (using ITS, PHYB, trnH-psbA and rpl32-trnL molecular markers). In this research, one species (Zannichellia palustris) with two varieties is distinguished. An identification key to varieties is presented and descriptions of them are provided. A distribution map of the genus in Iran is compiled. The distribution is concentrated in northern, central and southwestern parts of Iran.