Epharmonic Response in Certain New Zealand Species, and its Bearing on Taxonomic Questions

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Abstract
Ephar-mony is used to denote all changes in the form of an organism traceable to varying conditions of environment. In Ranunculus monroi and Senecio bellidioides it is shown that the different varieties which are referred to these spp. are due to differences in humidity. Olearia virgata shows very distinct forms within and without the forest, apparently separate varieties, but growing in grassland the lower shaded portion of the plant has leaves of the forest variety; the upper part of the same plant, leaves of the plains variety. Senecio sciadophilus, Fuchsia colensoi and Lobelia aniceps show variations from upright to climbing forms and some of these variations seem to be responses to environment; others to other causes. The same is true of the upright and prostrate forms of Coprosma propinqua. Color variations are discussed in Azolla rubra, Schoenus pauciflorus and Epilobium melanocaulon. It is concluded that the taxonomist must take field and experimental studies into consideration, determining which variations are epharmonic and which are inherited.

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