[Botany • 2026] Psittacanthus job-kuijtii • Novelties in Psittacanthus (Loranthaceae) from Colombia: A New Species and four new records for the Andean and Amazon Regions

 

Psittacanthus job-kuijtii F.J.Roldán, Carmona & J.S.Murillo,

in Carmona-Gallego, Roldán-Palacio et Murillo-Serna, 2026. 

 DOI: doi.org/10.5091/plecevo.1886910 

 

Abstract

Background and aims – Psittacanthus is the largest genus of neotropical mistletoes within Loranthaceae, comprising approximately 110 species. With 37 species recorded to date, Colombia stands as the most diverse country for this group of aerial hemiparasites. Despite this richness, a comprehensive national or regional taxonomic revision of these mistletoes is currently lacking. This study aims to update the knowledge of Colombian Psittacanthus diversity by describing a new species and reporting new records for the country.

Material and methods – This study is based on an extensive literature review and the examination of herbarium material of Psittacanthus. We examined herbarium specimens using both physical collections and high-resolution digital images. Morphological analyses were conducted using dried and rehydrated samples, following the standardized specialized terminology for neotropical mistletoes. Taxonomic descriptions and diagnoses were developed to establish and test taxonomic hypotheses, ensuring a rigorous comparison between focal taxa and previously described species.

Key results – A new species for the Colombian Andes is described, and four new records for the Amazonian and Andean–Amazonian Piedmont of Colombia are reported. Psittacanthus job-kuijtii sp. nov. is described and illustrated herein; this species inhabits the moist lowland forests of the Colombian inter-Andean valleys, which are areas containing exceptional biodiversity. Furthermore, P. amazonicus, P. lamprophyllus, P. pilanthus, and P. zonatus are recorded for the first time for Colombia. The description of this new species and the additional records increase the known diversity of Colombian Psittacanthus to 41 taxa and a total of 111 species for the genus.

Keywords: Andes, flora of Colombia, mistletoe, Psittacantheae, Santalales, taxonomy

Psittacanthus job-kuijtii.
 A. Habit. B. Flower, showing from bottom to top: the upper portion of the flower pedicel, cupule with bract followed by the ovary and calyculus, petals with their tips recurved at anthesis, and protruding stamens and pistil. C. Detail of vermicular projections on the margin of petal. D. Basal ligule in front view. E. Basal ligule in lateral view.

 Based on the holotype (David et al. 6371, HUA). Illustration by Diego Zapata (HUA).

Psittacanthus job-kuijtii.
 A. Triad of an inflorescence showing basal floral parts (flower pedicels and cupule with bract, ovary, calyculus, and proximal portion of petals). B. Flower buds. C. Flower at anthesis with recurved petals.

Photographs from the holotype (David et al. 6371, HUA) by Esteban Domínguez. 

Figure composition by Diego Zapata (HUA).

Psittacanthus job-kuijtii F.J.Roldán, Carmona & J.S.Murillo, sp nov.

 

Diagnosis. Psittacanthus job-kuijtii differs from the remaining species in the genus by the combination of the following characters: percurrent shoots; leaf blades ovate to broadly lanceolate, base truncate to rounded, margins revolute and adaxially extending toward the petiole, forming a V-shaped projection, apex attenuate to acuminate; inflorescences usually double triads, rarely triple triads, or a monad with two triads (all variations were observed in the holotype); flowers 4–5 cm long in pre-anthesis; petals red to orange in the proximal and medial portions and yellow distally with a deltoid, fleshy basal ligule bearing minute papillae, 1.8–2 mm long; stamens dimorphic, staminal hairs absent. Psittacanthus job-kuijtii is similar to P. peronopetalus, but differs from it by having usually double (rarely triple) triads (vs umbels of four triads), and flowers opening at anthesis with petals recurved for about 2 cm (vs flowers opening only at the apex, with petals recurved for no more than 2 mm).

Isabel Carmona-Gallego, Francisco J. Roldán-Palacio and Jhon S. Murillo-Serna. 2026. Novelties in Psittacanthus (Loranthaceae) from Colombia: A New Species and four new records for the Andean and Amazon Regions. Plant Ecology and Evolution. 159(2): 347-355.  DOI: doi.org/10.5091/plecevo.1886910 [2 Jun 2026]

[Botany • 2026] Phragmanthera bidaultii (Loranthaceae) • A New Species from the Sanaga River Basin, Cameroon

Phragmanthera bidaultii Libalah & O.Lachenaud,
 

in Simo-Droissart, Lachenaud, Libalah et Sonké. 2026. 

DOI: doi.org/10.5091/plecevo.172526  

 Photos by Ehoarn Bidault & Murielle Simo-Droissart 

 

Abstract

Background and aims – Riverine habitats along the Sanaga River in Cameroon were until recently little-explored by botanists, although they are facing increasing threats, notably from the construction of hydroelectric dams. Recent botanical inventories in the area have led to the discovery of several taxonomical novelties, including a new species of Phragmanthera (Loranthaceae) that is described here.

Material and methods – This paper is based on field studies and examination of herbarium collections of the new species and its relatives. Classic practices of herbarium taxonomy have been applied. The conservation status of the new species is assessed following the IUCN Red List Categories and Criteria.

Key results – Phragmanthera bidaultii sp. nov. is identified by its non-septate anthers (a unique character in the genus), by the patent to reflexed corolla lobes with the apex thickened into a conical appendage, and by its relatively narrow leaves, initially with sparse rufous barbellate hairs but soon becoming glabrescent on both sides. It has a very restricted distribution along the Sanaga River in Cameroon, where it grows in riparian forest, and it is assessed as Endangered (EN).

Keywords: hydroelectric dam, IUCN Red List assessment, mistletoes, riverine forests, Santalales, taxonomy, threatened species

Phragmanthera bidaultii.
A. Flowering branch. B. Detail of the corolla. C. Flowers. D. Branch with young fruits (green) and one mature fruit (orange). E. Apex of branch with young leaves (note rufous hairs) and one mature fruit.

A–C from Bidault et al. 6039; D from Sonké & Simo 7412; E from Sonké & Simo 7430. Photos by Ehoarn Bidault (A–C), Murielle Simo-Droissart (D, E).

Phragmanthera bidaultii Libalah & O.Lachenaud, sp. nov.

 

Diagnosis: Phragmanthera bidaultii has patent to reflexed corolla lobes, a style with a distinct neck under the stigma and stamen filaments without an apical tooth, in which characters it resembles P. leonensis (Sprague) Balle, P. nigritana (Hook.f. ex Benth.) Balle, and P. vignei Balle, but differs from all of them by the apex of the corolla lobes being thickened into a conical appendage (vs not appendaged) and its smaller anthers, 0.7–1.0 mm long (vs 1.5–3.5 mm) that are not septate (all its congeners have septate anthers). It is further separated from the first two species by its soon glabrescent lower leaf surface (vs persistently hairy), from the last two by its non-foliaceous bracts not or scarcely exceeding calyx (vs foliaceous and long exceeding it) and its corolla with hairs barbellate for most of their length (vs at their base only).

Murielle Simo-Droissart, Olivier Lachenaud, Moses Libalah and Bonaventure Sonké. 2026. A New Species of Phragmanthera (Loranthaceae) from the Sanaga River Basin, Cameroon. Plant Ecology and Evolution. 159(1): 27-34. DOI: doi.org/10.5091/plecevo.172526 

[Botany • 2026] Habenaria adamantina (Orchidaceae) • Hidden in plain sight: A New Species from the Espinhaço Range in Minas Gerais, Brazil, plus an updated checklist of the Genus from Grão Mogol

 

Habenaria adamantina Cruz-Lustre & J.A.N.Bat., 

in Cruz-Lustre, et Batista, 2026. 

DOI: doi.org/10.5091/plecevo.165607 

 

Abstract

Background and aims – Habenaria is the largest genus of predominantly terrestrial orchids and the genus with the largest number of species in the family in Brazil. Field expeditions to Grão Mogol, in the northern part of the Espinhaço range of Minas Gerais, Brazil, led to the discovery of a taxon within the Habenaria nuda complex that could not be assigned to any of the known species within the complex. This study aimed to investigate the identity and taxonomic status of this taxon.

Material and methods – We analysed the morphology of the taxon and compared it with herbarium specimens of morphologically similar species. We assessed its phylogenetic relationships using parsimony, maximum likelihood, and Bayesian inference, based on nuclear (ITS and ETS) and plastid (matK-trnK and rps16-trnK) DNA sequences.

Key results – This taxon belongs to a large clade that mostly comprises species from the Cerrado domain. It differs from other species in the Habenaria nuda complex in that it has patent lateral sepals, and petal anterior segment and lip lateral segments that are shorter than the petal posterior segment and lip median segment, respectively. It also has small auricles located below the rostellum arms and anther canals. Based on these results, we described it here as a new species, Habenaria adamantina sp. nov. We present a distribution map, alongside comments on the taxon’s habitat, phenology, and preliminary conservation status, as well as an identification key to differentiate it from other species within the complex. The number of Habenaria species in Grão Mogol has increased from four to 12 species, with the new species being the only one restricted to the region.

Conclusion – This study highlights the importance of both continuous and group-specific botanical surveys for documenting biodiversity, particularly for species that are seasonal, inconspicuous, or present in low numbers.

Keywords: campo rupestre, endemism, grasslands, molecular phylogenetics, morphology, Neotropics, taxonomy, systematics

Habenaria adamantina.
A. Habit. B. Leaf. C. Flower, front view. D. Flower, lateral view. E. Floral bract. F. Pedicellate ovary, gynostemium, and spur, lateral view. G. Dissected perianth. H. Gynostemium, front view. I. Gynostemium, lateral view. J. Pollinarium.

A–D from Cruz-Lustre & Gomes 407 (BHCB), E–G from Cruz-Lustre & Gomes 406 (BHCB).

Abbreviations: ac = anther canals; an = anther; au = auricles; ca = caudicle; co = connective; ov = ovary; po = pollinia; rm = rostellum mid lobe; rs = rostellum side-lobe; si = stigmatophores inner margin; sp = spur; st = stigmatophores; vi = viscidium. All photographs by G. Cruz-Lustre.

Habenaria adamantina.
A. Overview of the landscape and vegetation in the Grão Mogol region, Minas Gerais. B. Habitat of H. adamantina in the campo rupestre (Tropa Trail). C–D. Plants flowering in situ during the rainy season (Barão Trail). E. Inflorescence.

B from Cruz-Lustre & Gomes 406 (BHCB), C–E from Cruz-Lustre & Gomes 407 (BHCB). All photographs by G. Cruz-Lustre.

Habenaria adamantina Cruz-Lustre & J.A.N.Bat., sp. nov.

 

Diagnosis: Habenaria adamantina is morphologically similar to Habenaria australis J.A.N.Bat., A.A.Vale & Menini in its small auricles, but it can be distinguished by the patent lateral sepals (vs deflexed in H. australis) and by the insertion of the anterior petal segment at the base of the posterior segment (vs 3.0–3.5 mm above in H. australis). It is also similar to Habenaria egleriana, Habenaria sobraliana J.A.N.Bat., A.A.Vale & Menini, and H. sprucei in that the anterior segment of the petals and the lateral segments of the lip are shorter than the posterior segment of the petals and median segment of the lip, respectively. However, it differs in that the auricles are arranged below the rostellum arms and the anther canals.

Etymology: The specific epithet is derived from the Latin “adamas”, meaning “diamond”, and refers to the abundance of these crystals in the Grão Mogol region, which was a major diamond mining area in the late 18th and early 19th centuries (Karfunkel et al. 1994; Chaves et al. 2006).

Gabriela Cruz-Lustre, João A.N. Batista. 2026. Hidden in plain sight: A New Species of Habenaria (Orchidaceae) from the Espinhaço Range in Minas Gerais, Brazil, plus an updated checklist of the Genus from Grão Mogol. Plant Ecology and Evolution. 159(1): 12-26. DOI: doi.org/10.5091/plecevo.165607 [15 Jan 2026]

[Botany • 2025] Telipogon villonacoensis (Orchidaceae: Oncidiinae) • A New Species with an unexpectedly wide distribution from the northern and central Andes of South America

 Telipogon villonacoensis M.M.Jiménez, Iturralde & C.Martel, 

in Jiménez, Baquero, Garzón-Suárez, Martel, ... et Iturralde, 2025.

DOI: doi.org/10.5091/plecevo.157554 

Abstract

Background and aims – Telipogon is an orchid genus with a main diversity centre located in the tropical Andes. Some small-flowered Telipogon species, formerly classified under Stellilabium, remain poorly known. During recent fieldwork in southern Ecuador, an undetermined species of a miniature Telipogon was recorded and collected. We aimed to taxonomically identify the orchid and understand its phylogenetic relationships.

Material and methods – We conducted field work in diverse parts of Ecuador and Peru, revised material deposited at various herbaria, and records available on iNaturalist. Furthermore, we extracted, amplified, and sequenced DNA sequences to evaluate the phylogenetic position of the undetermined species.

Key results – The unidentified species turned out to be an undescribed Telipogon species, which we describe and name here as Telipogon villonacoensis. It has also been recorded in Colombia and Peru, an unusually wide distribution for a Telipogon species. Telipogon villonacoensis is distinguished by its pale green to yellow flowers, the elliptic petals and lip, minute lobes and red coloration at its basal third. This species appears to have a patchy distribution and specialized habitat preferences, growing as an epiphyte in montane shrublands and forests. Although fewer than 200 individuals have been documented so far, and its habitats face ongoing threats, our conservation assessment indicates the species could be classified as not threatened. Phylogenetic analyses resulted in a well-resolved tree, in which T. villonacoensis is placed within the clade of the South American miniature Telipogon and sister to, but genetically distinct from, T. pogonostalix, though it is morphologically more similar to T. alexii, a species placed in another subclade of South American miniature Telipogon.

Conclusion – Our results highlight the underestimated diversity and distribution range of miniature Telipogon and underscore the need for continued collaborative exploration and conservation in Andean ecosystems. These findings will contribute to a better understanding of orchid diversity and evolution of Telipogon species.

Keywords: Colombia, Ecuador, new taxon, orchids, Peru, Stellilabium, taxonomy

Telipogon villonacoensis.
 A. Habit with a close-up of the floral bract (A1) and apical portion of the leaf (A2). B. Flower in lateral view. C. Dissected perianth. D. Column, lip, and ovary in lateral view with a close-up of the setae (D1), and ventral edge of the column (D2). E. Frontal view of the column. F. Lip with a close-up of the marginal teeth (F1) and the basal, stained region (F2). G. Anther cap and pollinarium.

Plate made by Nadia Lapo-González based on the type specimen (A, C-lip, D, E, F) and on M. Jiménez, G.A. Iturralde & H. Garzón-Suárez 2190 (HUTPL) (B, C-sepals and petals, G).

Individuals of Telipogon villonacoensis from different localities.
 A–B. Type collection near Loja, Ecuador (M. Jiménez 1560 [HUTPL!], in situ). C. Mount Villonaco, Ecuador (F. Werner et al. 2253 [photo-voucher], taken in the lab right after collecting). D. Loja–Zamora road, Ecuador (M. Jiménez et al. 2190 [HUTPL!], in situ). E. Quispicanchis–Cuzco, Peru, in situ. F. Chota–Cajamarca, Peru (J. Chamaya G. s.n. [CPUN!], ex situ). Photos by Marco M. Jiménez (A, D), Gabriel A. Iturralde (B), Florian Werner (C), Carlos Martel (E), James Chamaya (F).

Telipogon villonacoensis M.M.Jiménez, Iturralde & C.Martel, sp. nov.

Diagnosis: Telipogon villonacoensis is similar to T. pogonostalix by the miniature, acaulescent habit, pale green to yellow flowers, and oblong and ecallose lip, but the first differs by its lip stained with purple-brown at the basal third, ending abruptly in an almost straight line (vs green-yellow at the base), lateral lobes of the lip ca 0.25 mm long (vs lateral lobes 1.0–1.3 mm long), the pink-purple column (vs white) with 2–7 setae per tuft, 0.2 mm long (vs 9–13 setae per tuft, 0.7–0.8 mm long), dark purple and coralloid setae with bifid to trifid apex (vs white and acicular setae with stellate apex).

Etymology: The new species is named after Cerro Villonaco, one of the highest peaks of southern Ecuador’s western Cordillera of the Loja basin and where the new species was first found. This mountain is home to patches of highly threatened evergreen montane shrub forests which harbour unique species of flora such as Passiflora brachyantha L.K.Escobar and Aphelandra villonacensis Wassh.

  Marco M. Jiménez, Luis Baquero, Henry X. Garzón-Suárez, Carlos Martel, James A. Chamaya G., Nadia Lapo-González, Florian A. Werner and Gabriel A. Iturralde. 2025. Telipogon villonacoensis (Orchidaceae: Oncidiinae), A New Species with an unexpectedly wide distribution from the northern and central Andes of South America. Plant Ecology and Evolution. 158(3): 392-402. DOI: doi.org/10.5091/plecevo.157554 

[Botany • 2025] Pinguicula panfetiae (Lentibulariaceae) • A New Caribbean Butterwort from eastern Cuba

 

Pinguicula panfetiae Panco, P.Temple & Y.Domínguez,
  

in Pančo, Temple, Cobas, Lobaina, Matisova et Domínguez, 2025. 

DOI: doi.org/10.5091/plecevo.161641

Abstract

Background and aims – Pinguicula is a cosmopolitan genus of carnivorous plants with more than 100 species, most of them distributed in two centres of diversity: Europe and the Central American-Caribbean region. Fourteen species are reported for Cuba. During fieldwork to study Pinguicula populations in eastern Cuba, a white-flowered taxon, previously misidentified as Pinguicula albida or Pinguicula jaraguana, was collected in the mountainous regions of the Alejandro de Humboldt National Park. This taxon represents a new species for which we present a full description, a distribution map, illustrations, photographs, and a conservation status.

Material and methods – Living and preserved material of several populations of white-flowered Pinguicula from Cuba were analysed, measured, and described based on vegetative and reproductive characters. Statistical analyses were carried out to explore the differences among the collections. The preliminary conservation status of the new species was assessed based on the IUCN guidelines and criteria.

Key results – Pinguicula panfetiae is described as a new species endemic to eastern Cuba. It thrives on permanently wet, ferritic soils derived from serpentine bedrocks, on slopes above the banks of the River Toa in association with surrounding semi-arid montane serpentine shrubwood (charrascal). It differs from the closely related species, Pinguicula albida and Pinguicula jaraguana, primarily by its smaller rosettes with obovate, suberect to erect leaves, non-involute leaf margins, smaller flowers up to 1–1.3 cm including the spur, longer (0.6–0.7 mm) and wider (0.18–0.22 mm) seeds, and that it grows in full sun.

Conclusion – The newly described species increases the number of Pinguicula in the Cuban archipelago to 15. Pinguicula panfetiae is preliminarily assessed as Critically Endangered (CR) according to the IUCN Red List Categories and Criteria.

Keywords: butterwort, carnivorous plant, critically endangered, endemic, Pinguicula albida, Pinguicula jaraguana, taxonomy

Pinguicula panfetiae based on type specimens (holotype HAJB [G 002601], isotypes B, BSC [22092]) and on living material.
A. Habit, perennial herb with details of the trichomes of the leaf and the inflorescence scape (circles). B. Emerging leaf with involute margin. C. Frontal view of the flower. D. Lateral view of the flower. E1. Internal trichomes of the outer part of the corolla tube. E2. Internal trichomes of the middle part of the corolla tube. E3. Internal trichomes of the inner part of the corolla tube. F. Dissected flower with the persistent calyx and lateral view of the stamens and gynoecium. G. Fruit with persistent calyx. H. Lateral view of the seed.

Illustration by Yoannis Domínguez.

Pinguicula panfetiae at the type locality in the Alejandro de Humboldt National Park, eastern Cuba.
A. Habit. B. Frontal view of the flower. C. Lateral view of the flower. D. Dissected flower showing the persistent calyx and stamens and gynoecium. E. Lateral view of the fruit. F. Habitat at the banks of the River Toa. G. Regular rosettes with suberect leaves. H. Calathiform rosettes with erect leaves.

Photos by Ivan Pančo (A–E, G–H) and Ivana Matisova (F).

Pinguicula panfetiae Panco, P.Temple & Y.Domínguez, sp. nov.

Diagnosis: Pinguicula jaraguana Casper affinis sed brevibus, foliis ovobatis, erectis suberectis, margine integerrima non involute, flores parvi 10–13 mm (calcari incluso), semina 0.6–0.7 mm longa (appendix incluso), 0.18–0.22 mm lata.

Distinct vegetative and reproductive morphological traits of related species.
 A. Pinguicula panfetiae. B. Pinguicula albida. C. Pinguicula jaraguana.

Photos by Ivan Pančo (A, C) and Yoannis Domínguez (B).

Etymology: Pinguicula panfetiae is named in honour of the late Cuban botanist, Prof. Dr Cristina Mercedes Panfet Valdés, to acknowledge her contributions to Cuban flora research, in particular, with regard to the carnivorous plant families for which she was the main Cuban specialist. Besides her research, Prof. Panfet dedicated most of her life to empowering many generations of Cuban botanists to achieve professional standing, which is also acknowledged herein.

 Ivan Pančo, Paul Temple, Geovanys Rodríguez Cobas, Noel Coutin Lobaina, Ivana Matisova and Yoannis Domínguez. 2025. Pinguicula panfetiae (Lentibulariaceae), A New Caribbean Butterwort from eastern Cuba. Plant Ecology and Evolution. 158(3): 382-391. DOI: doi.org/10.5091/plecevo.161641

 

[Botany • 2025] Uvariopsis niangadoumae (Annonaceae) • Passion and Combat on a Floral Stage: A New Species from Monts de Cristal, Gabon, with Notes on its Unique Pollination Ecology

Uvariopsis niangadoumae  Couvreur & Dagallier,

in Couvreur, Niangadouma, Nguimbit, Paradis, Dagallier, Baudoin-Huit, Collin, Haran et Droissart, 2025. 

    DOI: doi.org/10.5091/plecevo.152843

Abstract

Background and aims – Gabon is a major centre of biodiversity. We describe a new species from the tropical plant family Annonaceae: Uvariopsis niangadoumae sp. nov., known from a single population in the Monts de Cristal National Park.

Material and methods – Field work was conducted to collect plant specimens and observe floral visitors. Pollen samples were collected and prepared for microscopic analysis. The phylogenetic tree of Uvariopsis was reconstructed using a maximum likelihood method and based on hundreds of nuclear markers. Pollination biology was studied using a DIY camera trap (PICT) placed near a female flower to record floral visitors and their behaviour for one full day. Several flower visitors were collected and identified using DNA barcoding.

Key results – Uvariopsis niangadoumae is a tree reaching five metres tall, characterized by strong-scented leaves, few-flowered cauliflorous foul-smelling flowers, and large pollen grains shed in tetrads. The species is endemic to a small area within the Monts de Cristal National Park. Phylogenetic analysis places U. niangadoumae within the “large-leaved clade” species complex with now five taxa. Pollination is diurnal, and the primary pollinator is a rove beetle (Staphylinidae), which uses the female flowers as a mating site, with males fighting for control of the flower. The rove beetles might be attracted by a chemical cue, the foul scent of the flowers, and visual cues, with the inner part of the petals resembling mushrooms.

Conclusion – These results emphasize once again the importance of the Monts de Cristal National Park for biodiversity and highlight conservation concerns for the newly described species. The new species is monitored regularly, especially for fruiting individuals, to support ex situ propagation. The Kinguélé Aval project maintains a conservation nursery with 56 species, including 20 individuals of this new species.

Keywords: camera trap, hydrological dam, IUCN conservation, plant-insect interactions, saprocantharophily, Staphylinidae

Uvariopsis niangadoumae, detail of male and female flowers. 

A. Detail of inner side of female (left) and male (right) flowers, one petal removed. B. Detail of female flower, one petal removed. C. Detail of inner side of one female petal. D. Old female flower. E. Detail of sepals on male flower. F. Young male flower, not at anthesis yet. 

From Couvreur 1803. Photos by Thomas L.P. Couvreur. Scale bars: A–D = 0.5 cm.

Uvariopsis niangadoumae, natural habit and vegetative characters.
A. Habitat along a small stream. B. General view. C. Young leaves, light green, dropping. D. Detail of adaxial side of leaf base. E. Detail of abaxial side of leaf base.

From Couvreur 1803. Photos by Thomas L.P. Couvreur.

Uvariopsis niangadoumae, detail of fruits and flower visitors.
A. One monocarp. B. Longitudinal section of a single monocarp showing the seeds. C. Male flower with small Diptera visitors. D. Female flower with one large Staphylinidae beetle. F. Upper side of male flower covered with Crematogaster sp. ants. F. Male flower with large Staphylinidae beetle emerging covered in pollen.

 From Couvreur 1803. Photos by Thomas L.P. Couvreur. Scale bars: A, B = 1 cm.

 Uvariopsis niangadoumae Couvreur & Dagallier, sp. nov.

 

Diagnosis: Uvariopsis niangadoumae resembles U. korupensis in the shape and dimensions of its leaves and the overall size of the flowers. It differs by having strong scented leaves versus no clear scent in U. korupensis. Furthermore, U. niangadoumae bears no more than two, few-flowered inflorescences on small protrusions at the base of the trunk, whereas in U. korupensis the base of the trunk is densely covered with inflorescences. Flowers of U. niangadoumae have free petals with a length:width ratio between 1.3 and 1.7 vs fused at base and a l:w ratio between 2.2 and 7 in U. korupensis. Uvariopsis niangadoumae also has fewer carpels than U. korupensis (20–25 vs 25–120).

Etymology: This species is dedicated to the Gabonese botanist Raoul Niangadouma who participated in the (long and arduous) botanical inventories that led to the official recognition of the Monts de Cristal National Park. Raoul Niangadouma is also one of the collectors of the type specimen of this species.

 Thomas L.P. Couvreur, Raoul Niangadouma, Igor Nguimbit, Anne-Hélène Paradis, Léo-Paul M.J. Dagallier, Lola Baudoin-Huit, Myriam Collin, Julien M. Haran and Vincent Droissart. 2025. Passion and Combat on a Floral Stage: A New Species of Uvariopsis (Annonaceae) from Monts de Cristal, Gabon, with Notes on its Unique Pollination Ecology. Plant Ecology and Evolution. 158(2): 294-308. DOI: doi.org/10.5091/plecevo.152843

[Botany • 2025] Rhipidoglossum fischerianum (Orchidaceae: Angraecinae) • A New Species from the Western Rift Valley (Africa)

Rhipidoglossum fischerianum A.R.Macedo & Farminhão, 

in Macedo, Trovó, Stévart et Farminhão. 2025.

DOI: doi.org/10.5091/plecevo.155517

 

Abstract

Background and aims – Rhipidoglossum is the third most species-rich epiphytic orchid genus in continental Tropical Africa, containing at least 53 species. As part of an ongoing taxonomic revision, a new species endemic to the Western Rift Valley was identified. The novelty was previously confused with R. adoxum and R. globulosocalcaratum. Here, we aim to clarify the diagnostic traits and geographic distribution of these three species.

Material and methods – We applied standard herbarium taxonomic practices to a geographically representative sampling of dry and spirit specimens identified as R. adoxum and R. globulosocalcaratum, and conducted a thorough review of regional floras and field photographs to compile all available information on the novelty. A synoptic table, distribution map, and the risk of extinction based on IUCN Red List conservation status accompany the description and illustration of this new species.

Key results – Rhipidoglossum fischerianum sp. nov., R. globulosocalcaratum, and R. adoxum can be distinguished from each other based on stem size, leaf apex, perianth, and rostellum morphology. Rhipidoglossum fischerianum is endemic to the lower montane forests in the Western Rift, whereas R. globulosocalcaratum is restricted to the Guineo-Congolian forests, and newly recorded from Cameroon and Uganda. Rhipidoglossum adoxum is found in montane forests of Ethiopia, Kenya, and South Sudan. The new species is preliminarily assessed as Vulnerable (VU). The name R. globulosocalcaratum is here lectotypified.

Conclusion – This new species increases the diversity of Rhipidoglossum in the Western Rift to 16 species, of which 10 are endemic or near-endemic to the region. It highlights the relevant role of ongoing taxonomic work and the preservation of the Western Rift forests, which harbour high levels of unique biodiversity.

Keywords: Afromontane, African biogeography, Afrotropical biodiversity, Albertine Rift, East African Rift Valley, Ethiopian Highlands, IUCN, lectotypification, root gall, Virunga mountains

Rhipidoglossum fischerianum.
A. Habit. B. Stem apex with two inflorescences. C. Leaf. D. Flower: frontal view. E. Flower: lateral view. F. Dorsal sepal. G. Lateral sepals. H. Petals. I. Lip: superior view. J. Lip: inferior view. K. Column: lateral view. L. Column: frontal view. M. Anther cap: frontal view. N. Anther cap: posterior view. O. Pollinaria. P. Fruit.

 Illustration from B. Dumbo 17 (holotype, BRLU). Drawn by Roger Andriamiarisoa.

Watercolour of Rhipidoglossum fischerianum [BR0000006800420].
Prepared by Gilbert Delepierre, December 1991.

Rhipidoglossum fischerianum.
A. Habit. B. Habit with close-up of a root gall (J. Farminhão & B. Dumbo 233, BRLU). C. Habit (Gisenyi). D. Inflorescences (Cyamudongo Forest, from holotype B. Dumbo 17, BRLU). E. Flower: inferior view, showing spur (Gishwati Forest, unvouchered).

Photographs by João Farminhão (A, B), Eberhard Fischer (C, E), and Bonny Dumbo (D).

Rhipidoglossum fischerianum A.R.Macedo & Farminhão, sp. nov.

Diagnosis: Rhipidoglossum fischerianum is most similar to R. globulosocalcaratum and R. adoxum, but can be distinguished by the following characteristics: leaves dark green, linear-falcate with acute apex (vs light green, narrowly oblong with unequally bilobed apex in R. globulosocalcaratum; vs dark green, linear-falcate with unequally bilobed apex in R. adoxum); inflorescences with fewer flowers, 3–5 (vs 4–9 in R. globulosocalcaratum; vs 8–11 in R. adoxum); larger lateral sepals, widely ovate, 3–3.3 × 1.5–1.7 mm (vs widely elliptic to subcircular, 2.1–2.2 × 1.7–1.8 mm in R. globulosocalcaratum; vs triangular to widely deltate, 2.3–2.5 × 0.8–0.9 mm in R. adoxum); lip subcircular, markedly concave and bowl-shaped, spreading (vs transversally elliptic, convex, decurved in R. globulosocalcaratum; vs ovate, concave, decurved in R. adoxum); a lemon anther cap with a small pointed zenithal projection (vs pale yellow anther cap rounded at the zenith in both species); oblong viscidia with acute extremities, enclosed onto the sides of the rostellum (vs ellipsoid viscidia and rounded extremities, enclosed onto the sides of the rostellum in R. globulosocalcaratum; vs subcircular, exposed laterally to the rostellum midlobe in R. adoxum).

Arthur Macedo, Marcelo Trovó, Tariq Stévart and João Farminhão. 2025. A New Species of Rhipidoglossum (Orchidaceae, Angraecinae) from the Western Rift Valley (Africa). Plant Ecology and Evolution. 158(2): 248-259. DOI: doi.org/10.5091/plecevo.155517

[Botany • 2025] Syagrus harenae (Arecaceae) • Hidden in the Mountain: A New rare Syagrus with morphological novelties

 Syagrus harenae B.F.Sant’Anna-Santos, 

in Sant’Anna-Santos, Nunes, Micheli et Francino, 2025. 

DOI: doi.org/10.5091/plecevo.140657

Abstract

Background and aims – The Serra do Ambrósio is a mountain with a unique vegetation called carrasco. The carrasco is characterised by sandy soils of high granulometry and is home to rare species. During the current research on the Arecaceae flora of the Diamantina Plateau, a new Syagrus species was discovered, which is described here.

Material and methods – The morphology and anatomy are described based on field collections. The pinnae anatomy was analysed using LM (free-hand cross sections). The new species belongs to the Syagrus glaucescens complex, and an identification key and a distribution map were created.

Key results – Syagrus harenae resembles S. glaucescens, but some characteristics easily differentiate it, such as the small size, lax pinnae, symmetric pinnae tips, ramenta scales, a scattered thin indumentum on the peduncle, inflorescences and fruits orangish-yellow, and pistil with indumentum. The new species also possesses flowers arranged in tetrads and pentads and is the first species of Syagrus showing two sepals, petals with imbricate tips, staminodes with anthers, and frequently lacks staminodial rings. The pinnae anatomy of the new species also resembles S. glaucescens, which indicates their relatedness. However, reliable differences in pinnae anatomy set the new species apart, such as the fibrous ring reaching the abaxial hypodermis and the large first adaxial fibre bundle near the margin. The new species is assessed as critically endangered.

Conclusion – Syagrus harenae is the first endemic species of the genus described for the Serra do Ambrósio and possesses striking characteristics, such as the re-greening of the pistillate flowers and flowers arranged in tetrads and pentads. The type population corroborates the Diamantina Plateau and its disjunctions as one of the centres of diversity for Syagrus. The discovery of this new species reinforces the uniqueness of the local flora and its classification as a priority area for conservation.

Keywords: campo rupestre, carrasco, Espinhaço Range, Palmae, Serra do Ambrósio, taxonomy

 Syagrus harenae.
 A. Prostrated stem. B. Sheathing leaf arranged in 5 nearly vertical or slightly spiralled rows. C. Flowers arranged in tetrads. D. Sepals connate at the base. E. Flowers arranged in pentads. F. Fruits. G. Endocarp pores

. A–G from Sant’Anna-Santos & Francino 406 (DIAM, holotype). 

Illustration by Gustavo Surlo.

Vegetative morphological aspects of Syagrus harenae.
A. Landscape photograph of the type locality: a group of individuals (white rectangles) growing on the sandy soils near rock outcrops (ro). B. The white arrowhead indicates the prostrated stem. C. Ramenta (black arrowheads) on the pinnae abaxial surface (ab) and leaf rachis with brownish tomentum (ra). D. Long tapering pinnae tips (white arrowheads). E. Pinnae: dark-green adaxial surface (ad) and glaucous abaxial surface (ab). F. Pinnae inserted in divergent planes over the rachis (rc). G. Fibres (white arrowheads) of the pseudopetiole. H. Leaf sheath (sh), peduncular bract (pb), and prophyll (pr).

Photographs by Bruno F. Sant’Anna-Santos.

Floral morphology of Syagrus harenae. 

A. Staminate flowers on rachillae upper 1/3 and triads on its lower 2/3: staminate flowers in pre-anthesis (two black arrowheads). B. Tetrads (two white circles): staminate flowers in anthesis (two black arrowheads). C. Inflorescence bearing only pistillate flowers (after staminate flowers’ senescence). D. Triad: sessile staminate flowers, yellow pistillate flowers. E. Pedicellate staminate flowers (two black arrowheads), green pistillate flowers. F. Tetrad: two central pistillate flowers flanked by two staminate flowers. G. Pentad on lateral view: three central pistillate flowers flanked by two staminate flowers (two black arrowheads). H. Pentad: top view. Staminate flowers (two black arrowheads). I. Apex and base staminate flowers. Three petals (pe). J. Staminate flower: petals (pe) longer than ... 

Photographs by Bruno F. Sant’Anna-Santos

Fruit morphology of Syagrus harenae. 

A. Infructescence. B. Immature fruit: epicarp green in colour and recovered by a scaly lepidote tomentum. C. Mature fruit: epicarp orange in colour and recovered by a scaly lepidote tomentum. D. Fibrous mesocarp (me). Epicarp (ep). Endocarp (en). E. Three apical endocarp pores: top view. F. Endocarp pore, lateral view. G. Longitudinal section: brownish endocarp (en) and whitish endosperm (ed). 

Photographs by Bruno F. Sant’Anna-Santos.

Syagrus harenae B.F.Sant’Anna-Santos, sp. nov.

Diagnosis: Syagrus harenae is similar to S. glaucescens Glaz. ex Beccari, from which it differs by lax pinnae on the leaf rachis (vs congested pinnae), apical pinnae size (8–12 × 0.2–0.4 vs 1.5–6 × 0.2–1.0), pinnae with symmetrical tip (vs asymmetrical); base of the stem not-angular (vs angular), brownish indumentum where pinnae are inserted on the lower leaf rachis (vs glabrous); prostrated stem (vs erect); sheathing leaf base length (10–28 cm vs 42–52 cm), lax sheathing leaf base (vs congested); inflorescence strongly pendulous (vs erect ou slightly pendulous); peduncle with scattered thin indumentum (vs glabrous); petal tips imbricate (vs valvate); pistil with whitish indumentum on lower 1/3 (vs glabrous), inconspicuous staminodial ring (vs conspicuous staminodal ring); fruit yellowish-orange when mature (vs brownish).

Etymology: The specific epithet, harenae, means sand and refers to the unique sandy soil where the new species grows in the Serra do Ambrósio mountain.

 

Morphological aspects of  Syagrus harenae with ecological implications.
A. Fly on the peduncular bract. B. A bee visiting a pistillate flower. C. A bee visiting a staminate flower. D. Beetle. E–F. Larvae (two white arrowheads). G–H. Fruits and endocarps on the sandy soil. I. Mesocarp damaged (da) by fruit predation. J–K. Pendulous infructescences almost reaching the ground (three white circles), and young plants (two white arrowheads) near adult plants.

Photographs by Bruno F. Sant’Anna-Santos.

 Bruno Francisco Sant’Anna-Santos, Elaine Lopes Pereira Nunes, Rafael Micheli and Dayana Maria Teodoro Francino. 2025. Hidden in the Mountain: A New rare Syagrus (Arecaceae) with morphological novelties. Plant Ecology and Evolution. 158(1): 63-81. DOI: doi.org/10.5091/plecevo.140657

[Botany • 2024] Talbotiella couteronii (Leguminosae: Detarioideae) • A New gregarious Tree Species from Cameroon

 

Talbotiella couteronii  Sonké, M.Simo & Burgt,

 

in Sonké, Simo-Droissart, Bidault, Ngoula et van der Burgt. 2024. 

 DOI: doi.org/10.5091/plecevo.133256

Abstract

Background and aims – For some time now, the forests of the Sanaga basin in Cameroon have been threatened by the construction of numerous hydroelectric dams. In anticipation to this construction work, botanical surveys were carried out, resulting in the discovery of many species new to science. One of these certainly belongs to the genus Talbotiella in Leguminosae.

Material and methods – This study is based on morphological observations on herbarium specimens, through detailed examination of 28 specimens of the new tree species as well as specimens of existing species of Talbotiella.

Key results – Talbotiella couteronii is described and illustrated. The new species resembles Talbotiella batesii but has fewer leaflets, 5–10 pairs; an inflorescence usually with fewer flowers, 5–12; and flowers with longer pedicels, 10–20 mm long. Talbotiella couteronii is endemic to Cameroon, where it is restricted to the middle Sanaga basin in the Central Region and the Littoral Region. It occurs gregariously in periodically flooded riverine forests. Talbotiella couteronii is preliminarily assessed as Endangered following the IUCN Red List categories and criteria. The genus Talbotiella now consists of 10 species; of which six species are endemic to Cameroon. A comparative table summarizes the main vegetative characteristics of the 10 species. This treatment also includes an update of the description of T. bakossiensis.

Keywords: Cameroon, conservation, Endangered species, IUCN Red List assessment

Talbotiella couteronii. A. Flowering branch. B. Infructescence with two pods; two seeds. C. Flower with a single bract, two bracteoles, four sepals and 10 stamens. D. Stipule. E. Leaflet lower side, with two glands. F. Leaf upper side, with nine pairs of leaflets.

A, E, F drawn from Sonké & Ngoula 7886 (K); B from Sonké & Ngoula 7889 (K); C from Sonké & Ngoula 7887 (K); D from Sonké & Ngoula 7888 (K). Drawing by Xander van der Burgt.

Talbotiella couteronii.
A. Opened flowers. B. Twig with inflorescences. C. Young leaves with stipules. D. Infructescence with two fruits. E. Immature fruits and five unripe seeds.

A from Sonké & Ngoula 7888; B from Sonké & Ngoula 7886; C from Sonké & Ngoula 7895; D, E from Sonké & Ngoula 7889.

Talbotiella couteronii Sonké, M.Simo & Burgt, sp. nov.

 

Diagnosis: This species closely resembles T. batesii, from which it differs by the number of bud scales (11–17 vs 3–5), narrower stipules (9–15 × 1–1.5 mm vs 13–15 × 2–2.5 mm) that are glabrous on both surfaces (vs pubescent outside along the midrib), usually fewer leaflets ((5–)6–9(–10) pairs vs 9–13 pairs), looser inflorescence with longer pedicels (10–20 mm vs 3–8.5 mm) and usually fewer flowers (5–12 vs 10–18), larger ovary (4–6 × 2–3 mm vs 1.5–3.5 × 1–1.3 mm), and larger seeds (14–21 × 10–15 × 2–3 mm vs 9–10 × 9–10 × 2–3 mm).

Etymology: This new species is named after Dr Pierre Couteron (Institut de Recherche pour le Développement, Montpellier, France) in recognition for his constant support to the first author.

 Bonaventure Sonké, Murielle Simo-Droissart, Ehoarn Bidault, Fernandez Ngoula, Xander M van der Burgt. 2024. Talbotiella couteronii (Leguminosae: Detarioideae), A New gregarious Tree Species from Cameroon. Plant Ecology and Evolution. 157(3): 407-416. DOI: doi.org/10.5091/plecevo.133256

[Botany • 2024] Chlorohiptage vietnamensis (Malpighiaceae, Tetrapteroids) • A distinct New Genus endemic to Vietnam based on morphological and molecular data

Chlorohiptage vietnamensis T.V.Do, T.A.Le & R.F.Almeida, 

in Do, Lu, Le, Lam, Trinh, Deguine, Hoang et Almeida, 2024.

DOI: 10.5091/plecevo.115623

Abstract

Background and aims – Vietnam is one of the leading diversity centres for Asian Malpighiaceae, comprising 24 accepted species and three native genera (i.e. Aspidopterys, Hiptage, and Tristellateia). During recent fieldwork towards completing the taxonomic revision of Malpighiaceae for the Flora of Vietnam, we have collected specimens from two populations that could not be placed in any of the three native genera of this family. We performed morphological and molecular phylogenetic studies to test the generic placement of those specimens.

Material and methods – We sampled 27 genera (including the Asian Acridocarpus, Aspidopterys, Brachylophon, Hiptage, Stigmaphyllon, and Tristellateia, out of a total of 75) of Malpighiaceae representing all phylogenetic clades comprising paleotropical lineages (i.e. acridocarpoids, bunchosioids, tetrapteroids, malpighioids, and stigmaphylloids), the unusual specimen recently collected in Vietnam, and the two genera of Elatinaceae as outgroups. Maximum Likelihood analysis was carried out based on a molecular matrix alignment of the internal transcribed spacer marker (ITS). Comprehensive morphological analyses were also carried out based on the collected specimens and additional herbarium specimens.

Key results – Our molecular phylogeny strongly supported the unusual specimen from Vietnam placed as sister to Hiptage in the tetrapteroid clade. Key morphological traits differing these Vietnamese specimens from Hiptage were identified related to the floral bud imbrication, shape, colour, posture of sepals and petals, length of stamen filaments, number of styles, and shape of mericarps, allowing the proposition of a new monospecific genus.

Conclusions – Chlorohiptage vietnamensis is proposed as a new monospecific genus closely related to Hiptage but differing in several key morphological traits. A complete morphological description is provided alongside photographic illustrations and notes on its conservation, distribution, ecology, etymology, and taxonomy. Additionally, an updated identification key to the genera of the tetrapteroid clade is provided.

Keywords: Asia, Hiptage, Malpighiales, systematics, taxonomy, tetrapteroid

Comparison of morphological traits of Chlorohiptage T.V.Do, T.A.Le & R.F.Almeida, gen. nov. with Hiptage and Aspidopterys.
A–D. Chlorohiptage. A. Leaves with two basal glands. B. Close up of a thyrse. C. A flower without petals showing the androecium and gynoecium structure and eglandular calyx. D. Close up of a mericarp.
E–H. Hiptage benghalensis (L.) Kurz. E. Leaves with two basal glands and marginal glands. F. Close up of a thyrse showing glandular calyces. G. Flower showing the androecium and gynoecium structure and petal with fimbriate margins. H. Close up of mericarp.
I–K Aspidopterys tomentosa (Blume) A.Juss. I. Leaves eglandular. J. Floral bud showing eglandular calyx. K. Flower showing the androecium and gynoecium structure and petals with margin entire. L. Shape of mericarp.

 Photographed and designed by Truong Van Do, Anh Tuan Le, and Rafael Felipe de Almeida.

Photographic plate of Chlorohiptage vietnamensis T.V.Do, T.A.Le & R.F.Almeida, sp. nov.
A. Leaves with two basal glands (indicated by red arrows). B. Close up of a thyrse. C. Open flower. D. Shape of petals. E. Flower without petals showing the androecium and gynoecium structure and the eglandular calyx. F. Close up of a 3-styled gynoecium. G–I. Close up of the androecium structure. J. Immature mericarp. K. Shape of the mature mericarp.

Photographed and designed by Truong Van Do, Anh Tuan Le, and Rafael Felipe de Almeida

 (scale bars 1 mm).

Photos of Chlorohiptage vietnamensis T.V.Do, T.A.Le & R.F.Almeida, sp. nov. from the original population in the natural habitat. A. Habitat. B. Habit. C. Branch bearing thyrses. D. Close up of a thyrse. E. Branch bearing mature mericarps.

Photographed and designed by Truong Van Do and Anh Tuan Le.

Chlorohiptage T.V.Do, T.A.Le & R.F.Almeida, gen. nov.

 

Chlorohiptage vietnamensis T.V.Do, T.A.Le & R.F.Almeida, sp. nov.

Diagnosis: Distinguished from Hiptage by its floral buds valvate (vs imbricate), petals pale-green to yellowish-green (vs white to yellow) with margins erose and velutine (vs dentate to fimbriate and glabrous), stamens 9 long + 1 short (vs 9 short + 1 long), styles 3 (vs 1-2), shorter than filaments of the stamens (vs longer than filaments of the stamens), mericarps with 1 lateral wing, 3-lobed (vs 3 free lateral wings).

Etymology: The name Chlorohiptage is the combination of the Greek words “chlorós” (= green) and “hiptamai” (= to fly), referring to the unique green flowers of this Hiptage look-alike new genus.

Notes: Chlorohiptage is endemic to open subtropical broad-leaved evergreen forests and limestone-steeped mountains in Central Vietnam at ca 100–250 m.

Chlorohiptage vietnamensis T.V.Do, T.A.Le & R.F.Almeida, sp. nov.

 

 Truong Van Do, Ngan Thi Lu, Anh Tuan Le, Mai Xuan Thi Lam, Xuan Thi Trinh, Jean-Philippe Deguine, Thao Thi Hoang and Rafael Felipe de Almeida. 2024. Chlorohiptage (Tetrapteroids, Malpighiaceae), A distinct New Genus endemic to Vietnam based on morphological and molecular data. Plant Ecology and Evolution. 157(2): 125-136. DOI: 10.5091/plecevo.115623