Checklist and molecular phylogenetics reveal three taxonomic novelties in Habenaria (Orchidaceae, Orchidoideae) from Chapada dos Veadeiros, Goiás, Brazil

Researchers have uncovered three new species and one variety of Habenaria orchids endemic to Chapada dos Veadeiros National Park, Brazil, doubling the known diversity of the genus in the region. Among these discoveries is Habenaria cultellifolia, rediscovered after 127 years with only a single extant population. Molecular phylogenetic analyses using nuclear and plastid markers confirmed the novelty of H. minuticalcar, H. proiteana, and H. lavrensis var. xanthodactyla, which were described, illustrated, and tentatively assessed as threatened. The study also identified four locally endemic taxa, highlighting the region's significant biodiversity. With some areas yet to be explored, further taxonomic novelties are anticipated, underscoring the importance of continued floristic sampling in this UNESCO-listed site.

Batista, J. A. N., Cruz-Lustre, G., Do Vale, A. A., & Bianchetti, L. B. (2023). Checklist and molecular phylogenetics reveal three taxonomic novelties in Habenaria (Orchidaceae, Orchidoideae) from Chapada dos Veadeiros, Goiás, Brazil. European Journal of Taxonomy, 891, 51–86. https://doi.org/10.5852/ejt.2023.891.2271