In the preceding comment on Weingartia fidana (Backeberg) Werdermann we considered the hypothesis that Weingartia cintiensis Cárdenas was only a synonym for the first taxon (cactusinhabitat.org 2010). Subsequent studies in the habitats of the two taxa convinced us that they actually form a single biological species, which is shown in the occupied areas a normal progression of the populations and of the variability of the individuals. The morphological distinctions reported from the latest literature to keep the taxon separate as two subspecies (Anderson 2001, 602; Hunt et al. 2006, text: 248), indicate 3-4 central spines and 9-14 radial for the ssp. fidana (data not specified in Hunt et al.), vs. 13-14 spines, indistinct between radial and central, for the ssp. cintiensis (but 5-10 in N=249]Augustin & Hentzschel 2002). Such differences are insignificant in distinguishing populations of a natural species, whose distribution starts from the province of Jujuy, in the far north Argentina, while they occupy several contiguous areas of the Depts. of Potosi, Chuquisaca and Tarija, in southern Bolivia. It could instead affirm that, in the far northwest distribution area (Tarija and Chuquisaca), some populations of W. cintiensis show forms of growth where the stems form extended groups (A&M 567, photos 48-49; A&M 572, photos 51, 54-55), <92 cm in length, compared to the populations of the zone of Tupiza, although showing within itself individuals poorly differentiated compared to those living in the south of the distribution area. Compare, A&M 567, photos 23, 30, 37-38, 40 (San Pedro, Chuquisaca) with A&M 189, picture 6-9, 18 (Tupiza, Potosi). In relation to what has been shown, we add W. cintiensis to the synonyms of W. fidana. (Quoted from: Anceschi & Magli 2013b, 88-89).

Contrary to Anderson (2001, 599) and Hunt et al. (2006, text: 245; Atlas: X), in 2010 (Anceschi & Magli 2010, 18) we accepted Weingartia Werdermann as being a distinct genus from Rebutia K. Schumann. Our position is confirmed by Nyffeler & Eggli (2010), who in turn distinguished Weingartia (including Cintia Knize & Riha and Sulcorebutia Backeberg) from Rebutia, on the basis of the latest molecular research (Lendel & al. 2006; Ritz et al 2007, Lendel et al. umpubl. data; Nyffeler & al. umpubl. data). We recall that in the latest edition of Das Grosse Kakteen-Lexicon (Anderson 2011), Eggli reproposes the idea of Cintia, Sulcorebutia and Weingartia as separate genera. (Quoted from: Anceschi & Magli 2013b, 88).

Despite the reported morphological proximity and territorial continuity existing between Weingartia fidana (Backeberg) Werdermann and Weingartia cintiensis Cárdenas (Anceschi & Magli 2013b, 88-89), on the basis of molecular evidence (Ritz et al. 2007, 94 (8): 1324, 1326), we also recognize W. cintiensis to the rank of species.
February 2021