A new species of the genus Diaphanoptera (Caryophyllaceae) from Iran

Diaphanoptera gharehbilensis is described as a new species from North-Khorasan Province, NE of Iran. It is closely related to D. stenocalycina from NE Iran, D. transhyrcana from Turkmenistan, and D. lindbergii from Afghanistan. The new species is distinguished from the related species by having dense puberulent and 13-14 mm length calyx, bracteoles leaf-like, frequently longer than pedicels, and spathulate lamina. An illustration of the new species, images of its natural habitat, and some information about the habitat are provided. Furthermore, an identification key to the species is presented, and the conservation status of D. gharehbilensis is assessed.