Chaetostoma hexapetalum (Microlicieae, Melastomataceae): A New Species from the Chapada dos Veadeiros, Goiás, Brazil

Scientists have identified Chaetostoma hexapetalum, a new species of plant belonging to the Melastomataceae family, from the Chapada dos Veadeiros National Park in Brazil's Cerrado biome. This discovery is significant as it introduces a unique species characterized by six-petaled flowers, a four-chambered ovary, and distinctive seed structures. The research provides detailed morphological descriptions, supported by scanning electron microscopy images of seeds and field photographs, along with a distribution map. A key to differentiate Chaetostoma species in the region is also included. Due to its limited distribution and specific habitat requirements, C. hexapetalum is classified as endangered, highlighting the importance of conservation efforts in this UNESCO-listed protected area.

Nunes da Silva, D., de Oliveira Diniz, D., Koschnitzke, C., Fernandes Guimarães, P. J., José da Silva, M., & Maia, V. H. (2018). Chaetostoma hexapetalum (Microlicieae, Melastomataceae): A New Species from the Chapada dos Veadeiros, Goiás, Brazil. Systematic Botany, 43(4), 986–992. https://doi.org/10.1600/036364418x697805