A taxonomic revision of the genus Agave (Agavaceae) in the Lesser Antilles, with an ethnobotanical hypothesis

Rogers, G. K. (University of the West Indies, Dept. of Biological and Chemi cal Sciences, Cave Hill, St. Michael, Barbados). A taxonomic revision of th e genus Agave (Agavaceae) in the Lesser Antilles, with an ethnobotanical hy pothesis. Brittonia 52: 218-233. 2000.-The genus Agave (Agavaceae) is revis ed taxonomically for the Lesser Antilles. All 12 previously recognized spec ies are placed into synonymy under Agave karatto Miller. A neotype is selec ted for the name Agave karatto, and lectotypes are designated for A. barbad ensis Trel., A. medioxima Trel., A. obducta Trel.. A. vangrolae Trel., and A. ventum-versa Trel. Speci mens are cited for most of the Lesser Antillean islands. That the Caribbean agaves are similar to the Mexican Agave nayari tensis Gentry is supported. The hypothesis that the pattern of partial ster ility, clonality, and minimal morphological differentiation of the Lesser A ntillean agaves is related to prehistoric human activity is developed based on similar patterns among mainland agaves and historical information. Uses for the archaeological "Barbados shell tool" may have included decorticati ng agave leaves for fiber extraction.