Two new endemic species of Ophiorrhiza L. (Rubiaceae: Ophiorrhizeae) from Davao Oriental, Philippines

Researchers have identified two new endemic species of Ophiorrhiza, a genus within the coffee family (Rubiaceae), from Mount Hamiguitan Range Wildlife Sanctuary in Davao Oriental, Philippines. These discoveries, Ophiorrhiza erythropilosa and Ophiorrhiza hamiguitanensis, contribute to the understanding of biodiversity in this UNESCO-listed site. O. erythropilosa is distinguished by its striking red-violet trichomes on villose stems, subpersistent bifid stipules, and unique corolla morphology, while O. hamiguitanensis features coriaceous lanceolate leaves with brochidodromous venation, heterostylous flowers, and distinctive bracts. The study employed morphological analysis to characterize these species, highlighting their taxonomic significance and ecological relevance.

Alfeche, N. K. G., Alejandro, G. J. D., Meve, U., & Liede‐Schumann, S. (2020). Two new endemic species of Ophiorrhiza L. (Rubiaceae: Ophiorrhizeae) from Davao Oriental, Philippines. Nordic Journal of Botany, 38(3). Portico. https://doi.org/10.1111/njb.02581