A new species of Veronica (Plantaginaceae) in the extreme north of Europe: a northward migration due to recent climatic changes?

Abstract

Twelve species of Veronica (Plantaginaceae) are mentioned for Murmansk Region (Russia). We report the first localities (N 67°35′42″ E 33°24′50″, 67°16′58″ 32°27′56″) of Veronica beccabunga for the region. The species distribution range in Europe extends to nearly 65 °N. The first find of V. beccabunga in Lapponia Imandrae in Russia is briefly described, and ecological data about its habitat are given. A spreading route of this species from its northern range in Europe to the outpost locality is given. It is proposed to include this species in the next regional Red Data Book in the group “In need of monitoring”.