Taxonomic Revision of the Genus Dianthus (Caryophyllaceae) in Tunisia (North Africa)

This study presents a taxonomic revision of the genus Dianthus (Caryophyllaceae) in Tunisia, addressing the nomenclatural and morphological complexities of this taxon. Through extensive herbarium research and field investigations, the authors confirm the presence of seven species in Tunisia, including D. cintranus (subsp. byzacenus), D. crinitus, D. illyricus (subsp. angustifolius), D. nudiflorus, D. rupicola (subsp. hermaeensis), D. serrulatus, and D. virgineus. Lectotypes are designated for 11 previously unresolved names, clarifying taxonomic ambiguities. The study challenges existing classifications, particularly for D. serrulatus, where subspecies distinctions are deemed untenable due to overlapping distribution and morphological traits. For D. virgineus, the rank of variety is proposed for the three subspecies present in the country, reflecting the observed morphological diversity. Additionally, six taxa previously reported in Tunisia, such as D. balbisii and D. ferrugineus, are excluded due to a lack of evidence confirming their presence. The research clarifies the nomenclature of taxa previously reported in Tunisia and reports the distribution of species actually found. An identification key is also given. This revision provides a foundational update for future studies on Dianthus in North Africa.