Seven new species of Rinorea (Violaceae) from the Neotropics

A taxonomic revision of the genus Rinorea (Violaceae) from Colombia has uncovered seven new species, significantly expanding our understanding of Neotropical biodiversity. These discoveries include Rinorea chiribiquetensis, found exclusively in Chiribiquete National Parkalong with others distributed across the Amazon and Andean regions. The study employed a combination of field observations and herbarium analyses to distinguish these species, particularly within complex groups like R. ovalifolia and R. pubiflora. Two new taxa, Rinorea aymardii and Rinorea betancurii, represent previously unknown lineages with affinities to other Neotropical species. The research provides detailed descriptions, illustrations, distribution maps, and preliminary IUCN Red List assessments for these species, alongside an identification key for Colombian Rinorea sect. Pubiflorae. This work underscores the importance of Chiribiquete National Park as a critical hotspot for plant diversity.

Hoyos-Gómez, S. E., Callejas Posada, R., & Wahlert, G. A. (2024). Seven new species of Rinorea (Violaceae) from the Neotropics. PhytoKeys, 242, 241–271. https://doi.org/10.3897/phytokeys.242.110474