[Botany • 2026] Puya ukumari (Bromeliaceae: Puyoideae) • A New montane bromeliad Species from southeastern Peru

Puya ukumari  Treviño, Yuca & Gouda, 

in Yuca-Palomino, Mamani-Mayta, Champi-Charalla, Condori-Cuti, Llacta-Gomez, Treviño-Zevallos, Gouda, Forsyth, Whitworth et Pillco-Huarcaya, 2026.

DOI: doi.org/10.3897/phytokeys.280.211255

Abstract

Montane forests of the Tropical Andes are among the most diverse and endemic-rich ecosystems in the world; however, they remain insufficiently documented, particularly in remote and topographically complex landscapes. Here, we describe Puya ukumari sp. nov. (Bromeliaceae), a new species from humid montane forests and forest–puna ecotonal habitats in the Kosñipata and Mapacho valleys of southeastern Peru, occurring at elevations between 2,300 and 3,300 m a.s.l. The species was first detected during a long-term ecological monitoring program in the region but remained unrecognized for several years due to the limited number of recorded flowering individuals. Its taxonomic identity became evident following the observation of flowering plants during field surveys conducted in 2025. Puya ukumari resembles P. lineata in possessing a simple, nodding, dark-colored inflorescence; however, it is readily distinguished by its considerably larger flowering plant height (160–200 cm vs. 40–80 cm), significantly wider inflorescence diameter (11–12.5 cm vs. 3.5–6 cm), larger lanate sepals (30–33 × 15–18 mm vs. 13–18 × 6–10 mm and floccose), and markedly darker, nearly black petals. These characters support its recognition as a distinct taxon within the group of Puya species with simple inflorescences. The species is currently known from a limited number of confirmed localities within a restricted elevational range. Based on its distribution and the observed threats to its habitat, a preliminary conservation assessment suggests that it should be classified as Endangered (EN) according to IUCN Red List criteria.

Key words: Bromeliaceae, montane forest, Peru, plant taxonomy, Tropical Andes

 

Puya ukumari sp. nov.
A. Habit; B. Lateral view of the flower and longitudinal section of the flower; C. Androecium and gynoecium; D. Stigma with spirally twisted lobes; E. Adaxial and abaxial views of the floral bract; F. Juvenile leaves; G. Spine; H. Blade indument and marginal leaf spines; I. Upper inflorescence bracts near the flowers; J. Basal inflorescence bracts; K. Lateral view of the fruit; L. Bottom view of the fruit; M. Transverse section of the fruit; N. Winged seed.

Illustration by Nidia Sanchez.

Puya ukumari sp. nov.
 A. Inflorescence; B. Frontal view of the flower; C. Lateral view of the flower; D. Longitudinal section of the flower; E1. Androecium and gynoecium; E2. Dorsifixed anthers; E3. Stigma with spirally twisted lobes; F1. Upper right petal; F2. Upper left petal; F3. Lower petal; G1. Adaxial view of the floral bract; G2. Abaxial view of the floral bract; H1. Perianth dissection, showing sepals and petals; H2. Sepal apex; H3. Petal apex. Photographs by Jhon Yuca.

Ecological context, floral visitors, and early regeneration of Puya ukumari sp. nov. 
a. Habitat in humid upper montane forest and forest–puna ecotone, showing rocky slopes and discontinuous canopy where the species occurs;
b. Diurnal floral visitor (bee, Apis mellifera) interacting with flowers during anthesis; c. Diurnal floral visitor Boissonneaua matthewsii approaching the inflorescence; d. Nocturnal floral visitor (Anoura sp.) recorded by camera trap during night activity;
e. Seed germination and early seedling development under ambient montane forest conditions at Wayqecha Biological Station. Scale bar: 5 mm.

Puya ukumari Treviño, Yuca & Gouda, sp. nov.

 

Diagnosis. Puya ukumari is similar to P. lineata but is readily distinguished by its much larger flowering size (160–200 cm vs. 40–80 cm), significantly wider inflorescence (11–12.5 cm in diameter vs. 3.5–6 cm), and much larger sepals (30–33 × 15–18 mm vs. 13–18 × 6–10 mm), which are lanate in P. ukumari and floccose in P. lineata, as well as by its markedly darker petals (nearly black vs. blue).

Etymology. The specific epithet ukumari is a noun in apposition derived from the Quechua word “ukumari”, meaning Andean bear (Tremarctos ornatus). The species is dedicated to the Andean bear in recognition of the ecological importance of Puya species as a key component of its diet and of their close association within Andean montane ecosystems.

 Jhon A. Yuca-Palomino, Norma G. Mamani-Mayta, Luis A. Champi-Charalla, Elias Condori-Cuti, Narciso Llacta-Gomez, Italo F. Treviño-Zevallos, Eric J. Gouda, Adrian Forsyth, Andrew Whitworth and Ruthmery Pillco-Huarcaya. 2026. Puya ukumari sp. nov. (Bromeliaceae, Puyoideae), A New montane bromeliad Species from southeastern Peru. PhytoKeys. 280: 113-131. DOI: doi.org/10.3897/phytokeys.280.211255 [15-10-2026]

[Botany • 2026] Cryptanthus pataxoanus & C. beuckeri • Two Ornamental Species of Cryptanthus (Bromeliaceae: Bromelioideae) on the brink of Extinction: A New Species and its congener from the 19th century

 

Cryptanthus pataxoanus  Forzza & Leme,

in Leme, Fernandez, Fontana, Almeida et Forzza, 2026. 

DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.763.3.1 

Abstract

The authors describe and illustrate a new species of Cryptanthus, C. pataxoanus, found within the Monte Pascoal National and Historical Park, and present new data on its closest morphological relative, C. beuckeri, both endemic to the Atlantic Forest of the state of Bahia, Brazil, and assessed as Critically Endangered (CR). The new taxon represents one of the most ornamental discoveries in recent years due to its marbled foliage, with contrasting greenish-yellow and dark green colors, which is similar to C. beuckeri. The main differences between C. pataxoanus and its closest relative include leaf blades not petiolate or the basal ones sometimes subpetiolate, the much broader portion of the blades distinctly longer, the narrower sepals covered by brown-centered trichomes, and petals without glandulose trichomes. The discovery of the new species results from cooperative work with the Pataxó indigenous community living in Barra Velha and Barra Velha do Monte Pascoal Indigenous Lands, located within the boundaries of the Monte Pascoal National and Historical Park. It symbolizes the inexhaustible richness of the Brazilian biodiversity in general and the Atlantic Forest of southern Bahia in particular, despite its current coexistence with high levels of threat.

Monocots, Atlantic Forest, Monte Pascoal National and Historical Park, morphology, taxonomy

Cryptanthus pataxoanus (Umburanas 141):
A, B. Details of the population at the type locality. C. Habit. Photos: S. Caram (A, B); E. Leme (C).

Cryptanthus pataxoanus (Umburanas 141):
A. Elongate stem. B. Details of the marginal spines. C. Inflorescence. D. Details of the inflorescence. E–O. Perfect flower. E. Floral bracts of the basal fascicles. F. Sepals. G. Petal and stamens. H. Stigma. I. Frontal view of the anther just before anthesis. J. Abaxial view of the anther just before the anthesis. K. Basal fascicle. L. Flower. M. Basal portion of the petal and stamens. N. Details of the apex of the sepals. O. Longitudinal cross section of the ovary. P–T. Staminate flower: P. Flower of the inner portion of the inflorescence. Q. Floral bract. R. Details of the apex of the sepal. S. Sepals. T. Longitudinal cross section of the ovary.

 Photos: E. Leme. Bars: A = 2 cm; B, C, K, L, P = 1 cm; D–G, M–O, Q–T = 5 mm; H–J = 1 mm.

 Cryptanthus pataxoanus Forzza & Leme, sp. nov.  

Diagnosis:—This new species can be distinguished from its morphologically closest relative, Cryptanthus beuckeri, by the leaf blades not petiolate or the basal ones sometimes subpetiolate, with subpetioles gradually merging into the much broader distal portion (vs. always distinctly petiolate, with petioles strongly contrasting with the much broader distal portion); the much broader portion of the blades longer (20–30 cm vs. 10–20 cm long); sepals with narrower lobes (vs. 2–2.5 mm vs. 3.5–4 mm wide) covered by distinctly brown-centered trichomes (vs. trichomes white); and petals without glandulose trichomes (vs. adaxially bearing glandulose trichomes).

Etymology:—The name of this new species honors the Pataxó indigenous people. They belong to the Macro-Jê linguistic family and have a long history of resistance, facing challenges such as reclaiming their traditional lands and promoting the value of their culture since the 16th century. The Pataxó predominantly inhabit the extreme south of Bahia, which includes the area of the Monte Pascoal National and Historical Park where the Barra Velha and Barra Velha do Monte Pascoal Indigenous Lands are located. They maintain strong traditions, such as the Patxohã language, rituals (like the Awê), and the use of body paintings that serve as cultural identifiers, in addition to promoting the conservation of the environment within their traditional natural territory.

A. Watercolor by the botanical artist Paulo Ormindo, depicting Cryptanthus pataxoanus.
B. Presentation of the C. pataxoanus and the original watercolor depicting the species during the ceremony commemorating the 64th anniversary of the creation of the Monte Pascoal National and Historical Park, as well as the reopening of the Visitor Center, by the Pataxó indigenous people who participated in the discovery.

A. Watercolor by the botanical artist Paulo Ormindo, depicting Cryptanthus pataxoanus. B. Presentation of the C. pataxoanus and the original watercolor depicting the species during the ceremony commemorating the 64th anniversary of the creation of the Monte Pascoal National and Historical Park, as well as the reopening of the Visitor Center, by the Pataxó indigenous people who participated in the discovery.
C–F. Illegal selective logging and habitat degradation associated with mule trampling used for clandestine timber extraction inside the park. Photos: R.C. Forzza (B); C. Rodrigues (C, D, E, F).

ELTON M. C. LEME, EDUARDO P. FERNANDEZ, ANDRÉ P. FONTANA, PEDRO S. DE ALMEIDA and RAFAELA C. FORZZA. 2026. Two Ornamental Species of Cryptanthus (Bromeliaceae, Bromelioideae) on the brink of Extinction: A New Species and its congener from the 19th century.  Phytotaxa. 763(3); 201-218. DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.763.3.1  [2026-06-24]

[Botany • 2025] Hoplocryptanthus serrapiresensis (Bromeliaceae: Bromelioideae) • Doomed to Extinction by Mining: A New Species from Congonhas, Minas Gerais, Brazil

 

Hoplocryptanthus serrapiresensis Leme, J.L.Lobo, O.B.C.Ribeiro & A.P.Gelli,

in Castro, Ribeiro, Leme, Almeida et Faria, 2025. 

DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.732.1.5  

 Researchgate.net/publication/398287909

Abstract

A new species of Hoplocryptanthus, a member of the bromelioid “Cryptanthoid complex”, is described based on plants discovered in a ferruginous rupestrian grassland located in the southern Iron Quadrangle region, Minas Gerais state, Brazil. Hoplocryptanthus serrapiresensis is endemic to the Pires Range, a region under strong threat by mining exploitation. The morphological characters of H. serrapiresensis are discussed in comparison with H. knegtianus and H. tiradentesensis. This microendemic species is assessed as Critically Endangered (CR), reinforcing the need for a strategy to protect the biodiversity of the region. Characters related to leaves proved useful in the taxonomic delimitation of this new species. Morphological analyses also validated and reinforced the diagnostic floral and inflorescence characters used in the circumscription of Hoplocryptanthus.

bromeliads, conservation, Espinhaço Range, morphology, Monocots

A–L. Hoplocryptanthus serrapiresensis (Leme 10355).
A. Habit. B. Frontal view of the corolla. C. Lateral view of the corolla.D. Flower. E. Abaxial view of sepals connate at the base. F. Petal, filaments, and style forming a common basal tube which is typical for Hoplocryptanthus. G. Details of the basal portion of the leaf blades with pronounced marginal spines. H. Floral bract. I. Longitudinalsection of the ovary. J. Stigma. K. Frontal view of the anther. L. Dorsal view of the anther.

Photographs by E. Leme. Bars = 5 mm (A–D,F–G). Bars = 1 mm (E, H–L). 

Hoplocryptanthus serrapiresensis Leme, J.L.Lobo, O.B.C.Ribeiro & A.P.Gelli, sp. nov.

A. General view of the ferruginous rupestrian fields of Pires Range, situated in the Congonhas municipality, at the southernend of the Espinhaço Range, Minas Gerais state, Brazil. B. Details of large banded itabirite blocks which occur randomly dispersed throughout the area. C. The saxicolous habit of Hoplocryptanthus serrapiresensis at type locality.
D. Presence of intense mining activityextending to the limits of the Pires Range. Photographs by P. H. Nobre.

A–G. Hoplocryptanthus knegtianus (Leme 9322). A. Habit. B. Frontal view of the corolla. C. Lateral view of the corolla.D. Details of the basal portion of the leaf blades and the marginal spines. E. Stigma. F. Frontal view of the anther. G. Dorsal view of theanther.
H. Habit of Hoplocryptanthus tiradentesensis (Leme 5819).

Photographs by E. Leme. Bars = 5 mm (A–B, D, H). Bars = 2 mm(C), Bars = 1 mm (E–G) 

JOÃO LUÍS L. M. DE CASTRO, OTÁVIO B. C. RIBEIRO, ELTON M. C. LEME, PEDRO S. DE ALMEIDA and ANA PAULA G. DE FARIA. 2025. Doomed to Extinction by Mining: A New Species of Hoplocryptanthus (Bromeliaceae: Bromelioideae) from Congonhas, Minas Gerais, Brazil.  Phytotaxa. 732(1); 57-66. DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.732.1.5 [2025-12-03]

 Researchgate.net/publication/398287909_a_new_species_of_Hoplocryptanthus_from_Congonhas_Minas_Gerais_Brazil

[Herpetology • 2026] Phyllodytes gravata • Another Piece in the Puzzle: A New Species of Phyllodytes Wagler, 1830 (Anura: Hylidae) from the Atlantic Forest of southern Bahia, northeastern Brazil

 Phyllodytes gravata 

Santos, Rodrigues & Dias, 2026

 

DOI: doi.org/10.5852/ejt.2026.1048.3235 

Abstract

We describe Phyllodytes gravata sp. nov., a new species of bromeligenous treefrog from the Atlantic Forest of southern Bahia, Brazil. The new species is characterised by its small body size (males 19.5–22.0 mm snout-vent length; female 23.5 mm), a rounded snout with an apical tubercle, an inconspicuous row of tubercles along the tarsus, with a single prominent tubercle at the tibiotarsal articulation, a dorsolateral brown stripe, and an advertisement call composed of long series of pulsed notes (22–34 notes/call; call duration 5.2–7.3 s; dominant frequency 2.75–3.83 kHz). The species is currently known from only two nearby localities within the Central Corridor of the Atlantic Forest (CCAF), in the municipality of Porto Seguro, district of Trancoso, Bahia, a major tourist destination, where it inhabits bromeliads in sandy-soil ecosystems known as mussunungas. Its apparently microendemic distribution and strict association with bromeliads render it vulnerable to several anthropogenic threats, such as bromeliad harvesting, increasing tourism, urbanisation, and agriculture. This discovery underscores the persistent hidden diversity of the CCAF and reinforces the urgent need to protect its highly special microhabitats.

Keywords: Taxonomy, Amphibia, Bioacoustic, Bromeliad, Conservation

In-life photographs of Phyllodytes gravata sp. nov.
  A.  Paratype, ♂  (MZUESC 23915). B. Paratype, ♂  (MZUESC 23885).
C.  Paratype, ♂  (MZUESC 23884) Dorsal view. D.  Paratype, ♂  (MZUESC 23884) ventral view.
E. Aechmea lamarchei Mez; F. Mussununga, the natural habitat at the type locality.

A. Map showing thedistribution of Phyllodytes gravata sp. nov. and its sister species, P. amadoi and Phyllodytes sp. 7. in southern Bahia, northeastern Brazil. 
B. Phyllodytes gravata sp. nov., paratype, ♂ (MZUESC 23915). C. Phyllodytes amadoi, ♂ (MZUESC 24030 – photograph by  Tadeu T.  Medeiros). D. Phyllodytes sp. 7, ♂.

Phyllodytes gravata sp. nov.

Laisa Souza dos Santos, Miguel Trefaut  Rodrigues and Iuri Ribeiro Dias. 2026. Another Piece in the Puzzle: A New Species of Phyllodytes Wagler, 1830 (Anura, Hylidae) from the Atlantic Forest of southern Bahia, northeastern Brazil. European Journal of Taxonomy. 1048(1); 62–83. DOI: doi.org/10.5852/ejt.2026.1048.3235 [2026-03-27]

[Botany • 2026] Hechtia mixtecana (Bromeliaceae: Hechtioideae) • A New Species from Oaxaca, Mexico

Hechtia mixtecana  Hern.-Cárdenas, Espejo & López-Ferr.,  

in Hernández-Cárdenas, Espejo- Serna, López- Ferrari, Lara- Godínez et Siekkinen, 2026. 

DOI: doi.org/10.1002/njb.05137 

Abstract

Botanical explorations carried out in the state of Oaxaca, Mexico, led to the discovery of a new Bromeliaceae: Hechtia mixtecana,which is here described and illustrated. The new taxon is compared with the morphologically similar Hechtia fragilis, Hechtia lyman-smithii, and Hechtia minuta. Hechtia mixtecana differs from these taxa by the orientation of the leaves (ascending to divaricate), by the architecture of the staminate (twice branched) and pistillate inflorescences (once to twice branched), and by the length of the primary branches of the pistillate inflorescence (15–28 cm). A complete morphological description, images, and a geographic distribution map of the new species are included, as well as a list of examined specimens.

Keywords: Balsas Basin Province, endemism, Monocots, Poales, Sierra Madre del Sur Province

Hechtia mixtecana sp. nov.
(a) Staminate and pistillate plants in bloom, (b) staminate primary branch, (c) staminate flower, (c1) floral bract, (c2) sepals, (c3) petals, (c4) stamens, (d) pistillate primary branch, (e) pistillate flower, (e1), floral bract, (e2) sepals, (e3) petals, (e4) pistil, (f) fruit, (g) seed. Illustration drawings a, b, c, d, e, f, g by M. T. Jiménez Segura; photographs c1–c4, e1–e4 by R. Hernández-Cárdenas.

Hechtia mixtecana sp. nov.
(a) Staminate flowers, (b) pistillate flowers. Photographs by R. Hernández-Cárdenas.

Hechtia mixtecana sp. nov. (a–b) Rosettes at the type locality.

Photographs by R. Hernández-Cárdenas.

Hechtia mixtecana Hern.-Cárdenas, Espejo & López-Ferr. sp. nov.  

Diagnosis: Hechtia mixtecana is similar to H. fragilis but differs in the inflorescence of the staminate plants (twice branched versus once branched), in the presence of indument on its peduncle and floral bracts (glabrous versus lepidote), in the shape (elliptic versus broadly ovate to oblong) of the petals of the staminate flowers; in the length of the primary branches of the pistillate plants (15–28 versus 1–6 cm), and in the presence of indument on its floral bracts (glabrous versus lepidote).

Etymology: The specific epithet refers to and honours the Mixtec culture from Mexico. One of the regions occupied by the Mixtec ethnic group is located in northwestern Oaxaca, the area in which the type locality of the new species is found.

Rodrigo Alejandro Hernández- Cárdenas, Adolfo Espejo- Serna, Ana Rosa López- Ferrari, Sofía Ana Lucrecia Lara- Godínez and Andrew Siekkinen. 2026. Hechtia mixtecana sp. nov. (Hechtioideae; Bromeliaceae), from Oaxaca, Mexico. Nordic Journal of Botany. DOI: doi.org/10.1002/njb.05137 [02 February 2026] 

[Botany • 2025] Puya vallis-colcaensis (Bromeliaceae: Puyoideae) • A New Species from the Peruvian Andes

 

 Puya vallis-colcaensis  Treviño & Gouda,

in Treviño-Zevallos, Gouda, Quipuscoa et Bravo, 2025. 

DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.683.1.8  

Researchgate.net/publication/388487988

Abstract

A new Puya species, Puya vallis-colcaensis (Bromeliaceae, Puyopsis), that inhabits the high Andean region of Arequipa in southern Peru, is described and illustrated. This species has greenish-black petals, a compound inflorescence with branches measuring 11–15 cm long, floral bracts that turn dark when dry, and sepals with dense stellate trichomes, carinate toward the apex. This species was locally mistaken for the similar P. weberbaueri, but a comparative and detailed analysis of its morphology reveals that it should be considered a new taxon.

 

Puyopsis, Colca canyon, mountain range, endemism, valley, Monocots

 Puya vallis-colcaensis.
A. Habit; B. Branch of inflorescence and primary bract; C. petal; D. Sepals, on the left abaxial and adaxial view on the right; E. Flower and floral bract; F. Flower base and reproductive organs; G. Transverse section of the ovary; H. Fruit after dehiscence; I. View distal part of the peduncle; J. View of basal part of the peduncle.

Photos by Italo Treviño.

 Puya vallis-colcaensis.
 A. Habitat in Colca Canyon, Arequipa, B. Plant in habitat with a Condor in the background, circling around, C. Hummingbird visiting the flowers.

Photos by Italo Treviño (A, C), J.M. Wu (B).

Puya vallis-colcaensis Treviño & Gouda, sp. nov.

Etymology:—The specific epithet refers to the Colca Canyon, one of the deepest canyons in the world. In this placethis species reaches large numbers and is well distributed, being one of the characteristic species of this territory. 

Italo F. TREVIÑO-ZEVALLOS, Eric J. GOUDA, Victor QUIPUSCOA and Cinthia BRAVO. 2025. Puya vallis-colcaensis (Bromeliaceae) A New Species from the Peruvian Andes.  Phytotaxa. 683(1); 72-78. DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.683.1.8 [2025-01-29]

 Researchgate.net/publication/388487988_Puya_vallis-colcaensis_a_new_species_from_the_Peruvian_Andes

 

[Botany • 2025] Stigmatodon minimus (Bromeliaceae: Tillandsioideae) • A diurnal New Species of Stigmatodon from vertical rock walls of the Atlantic Forest inselbergs, Espírito Santo state, Brazil

 Stigmatodon minimus  D.R. Couto & Leme,

in Couto, Manhães et Leme, 2025. 

 DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.720.2.5  

 Researchgate.net/publication/396042970

Abstract

The authors describe and illustrate Stigmatodon minimus, a new species with the smallest stature within the genus, and discuss its taxonomic affinities and conservation status. Furthermore, this new species is the only one, among all others with typical tubo-laciniate stigma type, to present diurnal anthesis, reddish-wine to purplish-wine bracts, and unappendaged white petals, contrasting with the morphological characteristics of other previously known species of Stigmatodon s.str. The new species is closely to S. amadoi, with which it is compared, and considered a microendemic, Vulnerable [VU: D2] species due to its restricted habitat, reduced population size, and threats from ornamental rock mining.

Bromeliaceae, Poales, rocky outcrops, tubo-laciniate stigma, Vrieseinae, Monocots

 

 Stigmatodon minimus.
A. General view of Pedra da Fortaleza, the type locality in the municipality of Nova Venécia, Espírito Santo state. B. Close up of the summit of Pedra da Fortaleza. C. The hyperepilithic habitat of S. minimus on vertical rock walls. D-E. Flowering individual of S. minimus growi ng mixed with small islands of rock vegetation

(A–B photos by V. Manhães; C–D photos by D.R. Couto).

 Stigmatodon minimus (A-Q). A. Habit. B. Side view of the inflorescence. C. Back view of the inflorescence. D. Plantlets developed at the old basal portion of the stem. E. Basal leaf. F. Floral bract. G. Lateral view of the corolla. H. Frontal view of the corolla. I. Flower. J. Sepal. K. Distal part of the petal. L. Petal. M. Pistil. N. Ovules. O. Stigma. P. Frontal view of the anther. Q. Back view of the anther.
Stigmatodon amadoi (Leme 5953, R-S). R. Frontal view of the flower. S. Habit

(A, D-S photos by E. Leme; B-C photos by D.R. Couto). 

Bars: A-I, R-S = 10 mm, J-N, P-Q = 2 mm, O = 0.5 mm.

Stigmatodon minimus D.R. Couto & Leme, sp. nov.

Etymology:— The name of this species is based on the Latin word “minimus”, meaning very small, minimum, the smallest, as a direct reference to its size, which is the smallest within the genus Stigmatodon.

Dayvid R. COUTO, Vitor Da Cunha MANHÃES and Elton M. C. LEME. 2025. A diurnal New Species of Stigmatodon (Bromeliaceae, Tillandsioideae) from vertical rock walls of the Atlantic Forest inselbergs, Espírito Santo state, Brazil.  Phytotaxa. 720(2); 149-156. DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.720.2.5 [2025-09-30]

 Researchgate.net/publication/396042970_A_new_species_of_Stigmatodon_from_vertical_rock_walls_of_the_Atlantic_Forest_inselbergs_EspiritoSanto_Brazil

 

[Botany • 2025] Guzmania sanluisensis (Bromeliaceae: Tillandsioideae) • A New Species from the fragmented montane cloud forests of northern Peru

  

Guzmania sanluisensis  

in Rojas-Fernandez, Gouda et Marcelo-Peña, 2025.

DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.720.2.9

 facebook.com: Laboratorio de Plantas Vasculares y Herbario ISV

 

Abstract

Guzmania sanluisensis (Bromeliaceae) is described and illustrated, a new species from the severely fragmented cloud forests of the Jaén area, northern Peru. This species is recognized by its reddish to bright brown bracts and revolute white petals with purple spots at the apex. Its morphology is contrasted with related species. Additionally, information on ecological aspects, distribution, and conservation status is included.

Taxonomy, Poales, conservation, endemism, northern Peru, Monocots

Marisela Analu ROJAS-FERNANDEZ, Eric J. GOUDA and Jose Luis MARCELO-PEÑA. 2025. Guzmania sanluisensis (Bromeliaceae; Tillandsioideae), A New Species from the fragmented montane cloud forests of northern Peru.  Phytotaxa. 720(2); 179-183. DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.720.2.9 [2025-09-30] 

 facebook.com/100092540314053/posts/773420005752670

[Botany • 2020] Stigmatodon attenuatoides (Bromeliaceae: Tillandsioideae) • A New mat-forming Species on inselbergs of southeastern Brazil

 

Stigmatodon attenuatoides D.R.Couto, Manhães & A.F.Costa, 

in Couto, Manhães et Costa, 2025. 

DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.468.1.11  

 Researchgate.net/publication/344841259 

 

Abstract

During the taxonomic revision of the genus Stigmatodon, we found an unknown epilithic mat-forming species, morphologically close to S. belloi, on vertical granitic surfaces on inselbergs in southern Espírito Santo state, Brazil. We described and illustrated the new species, including a comparative analysis of characters that distinguish it from similar species. We also provide data on habitat, ecology, geographical distribution and evaluation about its threat of extinction according to the criteria of the IUCN.

Atlantic Forest, cliff ecosystems, conservation, granitic rocky outcrops, monocotyledonous mats, Vrieseinae, Monocots

 

Stigmatodon attenuatoides D. R. Couto, Manhães & A. F. Costa, sp. nov.

Etymology:—The epithet of this new species alludes to the resemblance between its leaves and those of Agave attenuata Salm-Dyck (1834: 303, Asparagaceae), which are green and covered by a thick layer of white epicuticular wax too. 

Dayvid Rodrigues COUTO, Vitor da CUNHA MANHÃES, Andrea Ferreira da COSTA. 2020. Stigmatodon attenuatoides (Tillandsioideae, Bromeliaceae): A New mat-forming Species on inselbergs of southeastern Brazil.  Phytotaxa. 468(1); 143–149. DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.468.1.11 [2020-10-23]

 Researchgate.net/publication/344841259_Stigmatodon_attenuatoides_a_new_mat-forming_species_on_inselbergs_of_southeastern_Brazil

[Botany • 2024] Pitcairnia aleserratoae, P. gracielae & P. pugana • Novelties in Pitcairnia (Bromeliaceae: Pitcairnioideae): Three New Species from Mexico

Pitcairnia aleserratoae Gonz.-Rocha, López-Ferr. et Espejo, 

Pitcairnia gracielae Gonz.-Rocha, López-Ferr. et Espejo, 

Pitcairnia pugana Gonz.–Rocha et P. Carrillo,  

 

in González-Rocha, López-Ferrari, Espejo-Serna et Carrillo-Reyes, 2024. 

 DOI: 10.11646/phytotaxa.660.3.1

Abstract  

Three new species of Pitcairnia from Mexico are proposed: P. aleserratoae was found in Guerrero, Morelos, and Puebla; P. gracielae known from the Estado de Mexico and Morelos while P. pugana has been collected in Jalisco. Information on distribution, habitat and phenology is provided for each species. The new taxa are compared with P. jaliscana, P. karwinskyana, P. micheliana, P. palmeri, and P. pteropoda, species morphologically similar.  

Key words: Bromeliaceae, endemic, Monocots, Pitcairnia, Sierra de Huautla, Sierra de Mazamitla, Mexico   

Pitcairnia aleserratoae, E) group of plants in habitat, F) base of a plant, E. González et al. 249 bis (UAMIZ). Photos: A. Espejo (E), and E. González-Rocha (F).
Pitcairnia gracielae, E) flowering plant in habitat, A. Espejo 6089 (UAMIZ!), F) inflorescence in habitat, E. González-Rocha 113 (UAMIZ!). Photos: A. Espejo (E), and E. González-Rocha (F).
Pitcairnia pugana, E) plant flowering in habitat, F) inflorescence in habitat, E. González-Rocha & P. Carrillo-Reyes 403, 404 (UAMIZ!). Photos: E. González-Rocha (F), and P. Carrillo-Reyes (E).

Pitcairnia aleserratoae Gonz.-Rocha, López-Ferr. et Espejo, sp. nov. 

 Diagnosis:—Pitcairnia aleserratoae is similar to P. micheliana but differs in the size of the spikes (16–27 cm vs. 12.5–25 cm long), in the indument of the abaxial surface of the peduncle and the sepals (densely white-lepidote vs. sparsely white-lepidote), as well as the shape of the petals (oblanceolate vs. narrowly elliptic to very narrowly oblong).

Etymology:—The specific epithet honors Dra. Alejandra Serrato Díaz (1972–2021) (Fig. 4A), professor who was in charge of Divisional Laboratory of Molecular Biology at the Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana-Iztapalapa. She always supported her students and contributed notably to the first author’s doctoral project, allowing that it was developed and concluded successfully.

Pitcairnia gracielae Gonz.-Rocha, López-Ferr. et Espejo, sp. nov.

Diagnosis:—Pitcairnia gracielae is similar to P. palmeri but differs in the indument of the photosynthetic leaves (sparsely white-lepidote on the margins vs. sparsely white-lepidote on abaxial surface), in the shape and size of the floral bracts (ovate, 4–11 mm wide vs. narrowly triangular, 2–5 mm wide), and in the orientation of the flowers at anthesis (secondly spreading to nutant vs. erect to ascending).

Etymology:—The specific epithet honors Dra. Graciela Calderón Díaz Barriga (1931–2022), professor and eminent botanist specialised in various families of angiosperms, whose dedication and constant work contributed significantly to the knowledge of Mexican Flora (Fig. 4B).

Pitcairnia pugana Gonz.–Rocha et P. Carrillo, sp. nov.  

Diagnosis:—Pitcairnia pugana is similar to P. jaliscana but differs in the inflorescence direction (curved vs. erect), in the size and indument of the peduncle (16–25 cm long, densely white-lepidote vs. 12–40 cm long, sparsely white-lepidote to glabrescent) and in the size of the peduncle bracts (12–29 cm long, barely surpassing the peduncle vs. 12–57 cm long, much longer than the peduncle).

Etymology:—The especies honors Luz María Villarreal de Puga (1913–2013) (Fig. 4C), an outstanding professor and dedicated botanist who carried out extraordinary work as a teacher and educator, and promoted studies on the flora and vegetation in the state of Jalisco for many years, and contributed noticeable in expanding the herbarium of Instituto de Botánica de la Universidad de Guadalajara (IBUG).

Edith González-Rocha, Ana Rosa López-Ferrari, Adolfo Espejo-Serna and Pablo Carrillo-Reyes. 2024. Novelties in Pitcairnia (Bromeliaceae; Pitcairnioideae): Three New Species from Mexico.  Phytotaxa. 660(3); 205-224. DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.660.3.1

[Herpetology • 2025] Crossodactylodes alairi • Historical Fragmentation in Atlantic Forest Explains the Diversification of a Clade of Mountaintop Bromeligenous Frogs (Anura: Leptodactylidae: Crossodactylodes)

Crossodactylodes alairi

 Santos, Gehara, Oswald, Ferreira, Santos, Garcia, Zamudio, Haddad & Magalhães, 2025

DOI: doi.org/10.1111/zsc.70001 

 Researchgate.net/publication/393606454

ABSTRACT

The Atlantic Forest domain is a biodiversity hotspot with remarkable amphibian diversity, including over 700 species, 70% of which are endemic. Most of these endemic species have restricted geographic ranges, often confined to mountainous areas, as exemplified by the leptodactylid genus Crossodactylodes. These frogs are characterised by small body sizes, a bromeligenous habit and limited dispersal abilities, with species often restricted to their type localities. Previous studies have revealed geographically structured lineages within the genus, even when separated by short distances. Here, we focused on a clade of Crossodactylodes comprising three lineages from southeastern Brazil, inhabiting montane forest ‘islands’ distinct from surrounding lowland areas regarding vegetation structure and microclimate. We integrated genetic, geographic, morphometric and qualitative morphological data to assess species boundaries through species delimitation analyses and validation procedures. This integrative approach provided evidence supporting the recognition of one lineage as a distinct taxonomic entity, which we formally describe herein as Crossodactylodes alairi sp. nov. Additionally, we applied coalescent simulations and supervised machine-learning approaches to evaluate alternative diversification hypotheses. Our results provide strong support for fragmentation models, suggesting that divergences within the focal lineages were driven by climate-related habitat fragmentation during the Plio-Pleistocene. Given that these lineages inhabit a non-macrorefugium region of the Atlantic Forest, their evolutionary trajectories were likely shaped by survival in isolated microrefugia that offered stable and suitable microclimatic conditions amidst broader environmental changes.

Keywords: Anura, integrative taxonomy, microendemism, microrefugia, Paratelmatobiinae, speciation, species delimitation

Geographic distribution of the three lineages addressed in this study (FG, ST and SL), which occur on distinct mountaintops within the Atlantic Forest in the state of Espírito Santo, southeastern Brazil. The inset in the bottom right corner shows the vegetation structure in the locality where lineage SL occurs, characterised by low trees, the presence of shrubs and lichens and a high density of epiphytic and ground bromeliads (photo: A. P. Araújo).

Crossodactylodes alairi sp. nov., holotype in life (UFMG-AMP 14201, male, SVL 21.1 mm).

Crossodactylodes alairi sp. nov.

 

Crossodactylodes bokermanni—Almeida et al. (2011, 557 [their appendix 1], in part);

Montesinos et al. (2012, 112 [their appendix 1]).

Diagnosis. Crossodactylodes alairi is diagnosable from its congeners by the following combination of characters: (1) absence of vomerine odontophores; (2) adult males lacking vocal slits; (3) absence of dorsolateral fold; (4) inner metacarpal tubercle in adult males weakly widened; (5) discs of fingers II–IV slightly expanded; (6) hindlimbs lacking transverse bars; (7) skin on males dorsum coarsely granular; (8) SVL 17.2–18.6 mm (females) and 17.0–21.1 mm (males); (9) in life, iris uniformly dark brown or light brown with dark brown fine reticulations; (10) upper eyelid margin granular, with a pronounced tubercle in its medial region; (11) disc of Finger I rounded; (12) medial region of the upper lip not anteriorly projected.

Etymology. The specific epithet honours Alair Tedesco, a park ranger who worked at Parque Estadual do Forno Grande for 27 years, dedicating much of his life to conserving the region. Even in retirement, he continues to collaborate with researchers and visitors, enthusiastically sharing his vast knowledge of the area. 

Suggested common names: Alair's bromeliad frog (English); rãzinha-de-bromélia-de-Alair (Portuguese).

Marcus Thadeu T. Santos, Marcelo Gehara, Caroline B. Oswald, Rodrigo B. Ferreira, Fabrício R. Santos, Paulo C. A. Garcia, Kelly R. Zamudio, Célio F. B. Haddad and Rafael F. Magalhães. 2025. Historical Fragmentation in Atlantic Forest Explains the Diversification of a Clade of Mountaintop Bromeligenous Frogs (Leptodactylidae: Crossodactylodes). Zoologica Scripta. DOI: doi.org/10.1111/zsc.70001 [11 July 2025]

  Researchgate.net/publication/393606454_Diversification_of_Crossodactylodes_a_Clade_of_Mountaintop_Bromeligenous_Frogs