Crispusanthus: A New Monotypic Genus of Old World (Paleotropics) Mistletoes

ABSTRACT A new monotypic mistletoe genus, Crispusanthus L.J. Singh and V. Ranjan with the type species, C. indicus L.J. Singh and V. Ranjan sp. nov ., is described from the protected forest of Sikkim‐Darjeeling range of the Eastern Himalayas. The genus is morphologically distinct from all other Paleotropic Loranthaceae, characterized by a unique combination of bract, calyculus, and cupule structures, as well as specialized pollen dispersal mechanisms. Alongside a detailed taxonomic description and illustrations, we provide a distribution map, an inventory of host plants, and an identification key to the genera of Indian Loranthaceae. Given its restricted distribution and specialized ecology, the taxon is currently categorized as “Data Deficient” as per IUCN guidelines category and criteria 2024. This discovery adds a significant lineage to the Himalayan flora and highlights the need for targeted conservation in protected montane forests.