kuromakaspia

Kuromakaspia is a genus of flowering plants in the family Brassicaceae. It was first described in 2010. The genus currently contains only one recognized species, Kuromakaspia crassa. This species is native to the Ryukyu Islands of Japan, specifically the islands of Amami-Oshima and Tokunoshima.

Kuromakaspia crassa is a perennial herb that typically grows in rocky coastal areas and open woodlands. It is characterized by its thick, fleshy leaves and its bright yellow flowers. The plant is relatively small, usually reaching a height of no more than 30 centimeters. Its leaves are ovate and have a slightly serrated margin. The flowers are borne in racemes and are approximately 1.5 centimeters in diameter.

The specific epithet "crassa" refers to the thick, fleshy nature of the plant's leaves. The genus name "Kuromakaspia" is derived from the local Ryukyuan language, though the exact etymology is not widely documented.

Research on Kuromakaspia is limited, and much of what is known comes from botanical surveys and descriptions. Its conservation status is not well-established, but like many endemic species in island environments, it may be vulnerable to habitat disturbance and invasive species. Further ecological and taxonomic studies are needed to fully understand its distribution, life cycle, and evolutionary relationships within the Brassicaceae family.