A Taxonomic Revision of the Genus Momordica L. (Cucurbitaceae) in India

Abstract

The genus Momordica L. is revised for India. Six species are recognized: M. balsamina L., M. charantia L.,
M. dioica Roxb., M. sahyadrica Joseph & Antony, M. subangulata Blume [ssp. renigera (G. Don) WJ de Wilde]
and M. cochinchinensis (Lour.) Spreng. M. dioica sensu stricto comprises delicate forms with evening anthesis
and intensely musky scented flowers, distributed in low elevation areas in Western Ghats, peninsular and central
India. Stout forms with day anthesis and large showy flowers occurring in mid and high elevation Western Ghats
are separated as a new species (M. sahyadrica Joseph & Antony). North eastern elements, presently treated under
M. dioica, are placed under M. subangulata ssp. renigera. M. macrophylla Gage has been placed in synonymy
with M. cochinchinensis. Presence M. denudata (Thwaites) CB Clarke in India is doubtful in the absence of valid
herbarium specimens or field collections from the reported localities. Generic and specific descriptions, key to
species, and notes on distribution, habitat and ecology are also provided.