Abstract

Vrydagzynea suddeei, a new species discovered at Trok Nong Nature Trail in Namtok Phlio National Park, Chanthaburi Province, Thailand, is described. Vrydagzynea suddeei is distinct from V. deliana in having larger, greyish-green leaves with a central silver stripe, and a labellum with entire apical margins, a minutely bilobed apex, and papillae on the upper surface. A detailed morphological description, illustrations, distribution, habitat, phenology, and a comparison with similar species are provided, along with a key to all known Vrydagzynea species in Thailand. Vrydagzynea suddeei employs females of sweat bee Lipotriches (Maynenomia) sp. as its pollinators, offers nectar as a reward, and is not capable of autonomous self-pollination or agamospermy.

Monocots, Cranichideae, endemism, floral reward, Halictidae, Orchidoideae, plant taxonomy, reproductive success

Vrydagzynea suddeei Chuchuea & Seelanan