Abstract. A newly discovered natural hybrid, Campanula xkusadasiensis (Campanulaceae:
subgenus Campanula, sect. Quinqueloculares), from Kuşadası province (Aydın, Turkey) in
western Anatolia, is described and illustrated. This hybrid was identified during field studies and
conservation projects, distinguishing itself from its parental taxa, C. lyrata subsp. lyrata and C.
hagielia, by morphological differences such as its softly hirsute stems, ovate-cordate basal leaves,
and infundibular corolla shape. The hybrid’s micromorphological characters, including seed coat
ornamentation and pollen structure, were analyzed using SEM and compared to its parents. The
ecological preferences of C. xkusadasiensis indicate a restricted distribution on calcareous rocks
within maquis habitats. Its conservation status is assessed as Critically Endangered (CR) due to
limited population size, restricted area of occupancy (AOO < 10 km²), and ongoing anthropogenic
pressures. This study provides comprehensive data on the hybrid’s taxonomy, habitat,
micromorphology, and conservation needs, contributing valuable insights into hybridization
within Campanula and supporting biodiversity preservation efforts in western Anatolia.
Acta Botanica Caucasica от Бакинского государственного университета распространяется по лицензии CC BY 4.0
