Three new species of Scottmoria (Lecythidaceae), from the tropical cloud forest of Panama

Researchers have identified three new species of Scottmoria (Lecythidaceae) trees within the tropical cloud forests of Panama, including Darien National Park. These discoveries—Scottmoria santafeensis, Scottmoria ilianacisneroi, and Scottmoria gracie—expand the known biodiversity of the region while providing critical insights into their conservation status, ecology, distribution, and diagnostic traits. The study employs field observations, morphological analysis, and phenological data to characterize these species, supported by photo plates and a distribution map. This work underscores the importance of cloud forest ecosystems in Panama as hotspots for botanical diversity and highlights the need for targeted conservation efforts.

GUERRA, J. E. B., & PRANCE, G. T. (2026). Three new species of Scottmoria (Lecythidaceae), from the tropical cloud forest of Panama. Phytotaxa, 747(2), 167–180. https://doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.747.2.2