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ABSTRACT The use of native trees is necessary for land restoration and the sequestration of carbon that is stored in forest biomass production in Indonesia. Meanwhile, the biomass prediction model used for native tropical lowland trees of Indonesia is limited to only specific locations and focuses on aboveground biomass (AGB). This study aimed to select and evaluate potential native tree species for high biomass and to develop the best allometric model for estimating tree biomass production (AGB, belowground/BGB, and total/TB) in lowland ecosystems in Indonesia. Trees were selected using the following five criteria: nativeness, ecosystem type, morphological appearance, multipropagation ability, and economic value. Biomass content was quantified for 102 sample trees (56 trees aged 4 years and 46 trees aged 8 years), using the destructive method. Effective growth biomass and species ecological data indicated five species as potential trees for land restoration in tropical lowlands of Indonesia: Litsea garciae, Terminalia bellirica, Pterospermum javanicum, Anisoptera marginata, and Cananga odorata. The best allometric model of this study is highly recommended for implementation with native trees of tropical lowlands in Indonesia, especially those in early stages (less than 8 years).

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ABSTRACT This study aimed to determine the effects of titanium dioxide nanoparticle (TiO2NP) pretreatment on seeds of different safflower cultivars (Balci, Dinçer) under salt and heat stresses. The apparent effects on stress markers (malondialdehyde (MDA), hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and superoxide radical (O2 •⁻) content), as well as changes in germination and physiological parameters (radicle and plumula weight and length measurements), were investigated. TiO2NP pretreatment caused an increase in radicle length and plumula fresh weight for the Balci cultivar under salinity. Furthermore, plumula dry weight was alleviated with TiO2NP pretreatment for both cultivars. TiO2NP pretreatment improved plumula dry and fresh weights for both cultivars under heat stress. In addition, MDA content decreased for both cultivars under heat stress but only for Balci under salt stress. The amount of O2 •⁻ radicals positively affected only the radicle for both cultivars under heat stress. This study is the first to document the alleviation of salt stress damage for the Balci safflower cultivar, and protection for both Balci and Dinçer cultivars under heat stress, using 200 ppm TiO2NP pretreatment.

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ABSTRACT Aristolochia hypoglauca and A. paulistana (Aristolochiaceae) are two species that inhabit the Brazilian Atlantic Forest. They highly resemble each other especially on the size and overall shape of the caudate perianth, which causes confusion in herbaria determinations. We applied geometric morphometrics (GM) to overcome this taxonomic uncertainty. GM was based on the landmark method applied to leaves of all specimens available mostly in Brazilian herbaria. The GM results supported the recognition of the two species, as the two principal components were responsible for 94.97% of the variation assessed through the principal component analysis (PCA). The Discriminant Function and the Cross-validation tests resulted in the maximum percentage of correctly classified cases (100%). The Procrustes distance (0.2252; p< 0.0001), and the Mahalanobis Distance (8.4473; p< 0.0001) provide statistical support for leaf shape differences with taxonomic significance. Thus, we revisit the taxonomy and comparative morphology of both species, and compare them with other Aristolochia species with caudate floral limb native to Brazil, and commented the phenology, distribution and habitat, and conservation status. Additionally, we proposed the epitypification of A. hypoglauca, given that the holotype does not fulfill the purpose of precise application of the name.

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Abstract During the Neotropical review of Celtis, a new species (Celtis atlantica) endemic and endangered to southeastern Brazil was discovered. A morphological description, a distribution map, conservation status, taxonomic notes, illustrations, and an identification key of the Celtis from the Southern Cone and Brazil are provided.

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ABSTRACT Lectins are proteins that recognize and bind to carbohydrates in a reversible and specific manner. In this work, a lectin from Crotalaria incana L. seeds was purified by Sephadex G-50 affinity chromatography. The purified lectin was named CiL and presented affinity towards D-mannose, D-glucose, D-galactose, α-methyl-D-mannoside and derivatives. CiL was stable over a wide range of temperatures and pH values, and it was divalent cation-dependent. SDS-PAGE analysis indicated that CiL is composed of two subunits with apparent masses of 29 and 30 kDa. The amino acid sequence of five tryptic peptides was obtained through mass spectrometry. Partial primary structure data indicated the similarity between CiL and lectins from Phaseolus vulgaris, Cladrastis kentukea, Lens culinaris, Pisum sativum, Crotalaria pallida and C. juncea. CiL showed no toxicity to Artemia salina nauplii at the concentration of 2 mg/mL, thus reinforcing the potential of this protein for further studies in other biological models and elucidation of possible effects.

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ABSTRACT Casselia, a small South American genus of Verbenaceae found in Brazil, Bolivia, and Paraguay, has often been misidentified within other angiosperm families. Based on a careful review of herbarium specimens plus fieldwork, the present study provides taxonomic, nomenclatural, and geographical distribution alignments in Casselia, while also shedding light on the reasons why it is a poorly known and overlooked genus. The novelties encompass the redefinition of the boundaries of C. confertiflora, recognition of C. confertiflora var. laciniata at specific level, reestablishment of C. zelota as an accepted species with an epitype designation, as well as geographic distribution readjustment of the C. integrifolia and C. serrata. Consequently, Casselia comprises eight species, occurring along the Atlantic Forest, Cerrado, and Caatinga domains. The only species with a narrow distribution is C. serrata. However, the genus is still poorly collected, and the species populations are not abundant. Furthermore, to aid in the recognition of Casselia and prevent misidentifications, a detailed description of the genus accompanied by plant photographs and an updated identification key are also provided.

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ABSTRACT The Serra da Bodoquena National Park is an important protected area that promotes the conservation of a threatened ecosystem, the Dry Forest. It comprises two major fragments of predominantly Seasonally Dry Forest vegetation. The two fragments are under different protection schemes because they are considered different biomes. The southern fragment is considered part of the Atlantic Forest biome, and is thus protected by the Atlantic Forest Law, while the northern one is considered part of the Cerrado biome and is protected by the Native Vegetation Protection Law of Brazil (2012). This difference affects management and threatens the conservation of the National Park. The Native Vegetation Protection Law is more permissive, thus increasing the conflicts between the park and surroundings in the northern fragment. We used floristic composition to provide a more accurate definition for the two fragments with regard to their phytogeographical domain. Our results identified high floristic similarity between the fragments, indicating the same vegetation type for both. Among the 202 plant species identified in this study, 76% belong to the Atlantic Forest biome. This relatively high proportion indicates that the predominant vegetation and species composition of the National Park is typical of the Atlantic Forest. The occurrence of fragments of the Atlantic Forest, with a representative number of species of its flora outside the area of application of the law of the Atlantic Forest, defined by Decree No. 6.660 / 2008, indicates the need to elaborate or adapt the law to protect these fragments.

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ABSTRACT As part of the systematic study of the tribes Ditaxeae and Adelieae (Acalyphoideae-Euphorbiaceae), here we compile and present a taxonomic synopsis for the South American taxa of Argythamnia, Chiropetalum, and Philyra. We recognize 22 species for Argythamnia, including one herein described as a new species, 20 species and one variety for Chiropetalum, and a single species for Philyra. We also designate 22 lectotypes, a new synonymization and a status novum, in addition to keys for each genus, distribution maps for all taxa, analysis of collection density in South America for each genus, and taxonomic and ecological comments for all taxa.

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ABSTRACT In ecotonal Cerrado areas, the addition of Amazonian and Atlantic Forest species mainly occurs through connections between forest areas and forest physiognomies. In this context, the biome is a unique region for research on the influence of geographical and historical factors on its biota. In tropical ecotonal regions, integrated communities can exist on soils that present variations in fertility, physical properties and depth, which results in heterogeneity of physiognomies. It was tested the hypothesis that edaphic conditions related to calcium availability are significantly related to species composition and structural parameters in two physiognomies. The study was conducted in the Cerrado of the Chapada das Mesas National Park (CMNP) in the city of Carolina, Northeast Brazil, and the sample universe consisted of 18 areas in two physiognomies. The initial hypothesis was confirmed. The results and inferences about the vegetation structure and physical-chemical parameters of the soil, suggest that the management for conservation of the CMNP must consider the particularities of the Cerrado physiognomies and the vegetation responses to environmental filters, such as edaphic conditions and associations with other organisms.

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Abstract During a taxonomic investigation of the names classified under Scleria subgenus Scleria section Hymenolytrum, it was necessary to replace the lectotype of S. macrogyne, as the specimen does not agree with the original description. In addition, we propose S. ramosa as a new synonym of S. macrogyne and discuss the reestablishment of S. cyperinoides as an accepted name.

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ABSTRACT This was the first study conducted on the diversity and abundance of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) species and quantification of glomalin-related soil protein (GRSP) fractions, as well as on their relationship with environmental and soil chemical and physical properties along an elevation gradient above 1000 m in a Brazilian Atlantic cloud forest. AMF diversity was assessed by examining spores extracted from soil samples collected near the roots of the 18 most common plant species in permanent plots established in the field at altitudes of 1500, 1700, 1900, and 2100 meters above sea level. Fifteen AMF species were found, most of them belonging to the families Acaulosporaceae, Glomeraeceae, and Gigasporaceae. Compositions of the AMF community varied among the altitudes; Acaulospora was the predominant genus, with six species. The total Bradford-reactive soil protein (BRSP) and the easily extractable BRSP (EE-BRSP) soil glomalin were the highest at the altitude of 2100 m (5.7 and 3.8 mg.g soil-1, respectively). Altitude and environment and soil characteristics affected the composition and diversity (Shannon index) of the AMF communities. However, the effect of altitude on AMF diversity can be estimated, indirectly, through its effect on plant diversity.

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ABSTRACT Manihot includes about 150 species with a Neotropical distribution. Wild species of Manihot constitute a plant genetic heritage that can be used in breeding programs for the cultivable species Manihot esculenta Crantz (cassava). However, wild populations, especially endemic ones, are under constant threat due to habitat destruction and climate change. The objective of this manuscript was to elaborate a taxonomic treatment of the endemic species of Manihot recorded in Northeast Brazil; determine the geographical distribution of species, richness, their conservation status, and solve typification problems. The study was based on the analysis of specimens deposited in national and international herbaria, as well as on field observations. Fifteen endemic species of Manihot were found, we propose lectotypes for five of them and one neotype. Most species are distributed in the state of Bahia, growing in Caatinga, Cerrado, and Atlantic Forest environments. Only M. breviloba was found in the states of Sergipe and Alagoas. The richest area was found in the Chapada Diamantina of the Espinhaço Range. In terms of conservation status, 80% of endemic species are in some threatened category, 13% are in the near threatened category and only 7% are in the least concern category.

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ABSTRACT A dendrochronological study was carried out to investigate the relationship between the growth of chir pine (Pinus roxburghii) and climatic variables in the subtropical forest of western Nepal. Using tree ring analysis and meteorological data gathered from a nearby meteorological station, a 78-year (1944 to 2021) long chronology has been created. Temperature and precipitation were found to have a substantial impact on P. roxburghii radial growth. Although there were positive correlations between precipitation and tree growth in January, December, and February to April, these relationships were not statistically significant. According to the correlation analyses, there was a negative relationship between the tree growth and the precipitation in September and August of the current year as well as the September of the previous year. Notably, temperature was crucial, as there were significant positive relations found between the minimum and maximum temperatures and tree growth. The temperature of the previous year (September, November, and December) as well as the current year (June to November) had a positive correlation with the growth of tree rings. The results indicated that while temperature was favorable for chir pine radial growth practically all months and seasons, summer to post-monsoon precipitation limited tree growth. Furthermore, the increasing average minimum temperature had a more significant relation with the tree ring growth than the average maximum temperature. Our result demonstrated that the growth of subtropicalP. roxburghiiresponded positively to the present scenario of rising temperature and falling precipitation in the study area. This research contributes valuable insights into the complex dynamics of forest ecosystems and their responses to changing environmental conditions.

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Abstract Although some studies have investigated the effect of climate change in the Caatinga biome, Brazil, its impacts on cactus species are yet to be understood entirely. We assessed if cactus species in the Caatinga biome will benefit from or be harmed by climate change in the coming decades. We modeled the distribution of Tacinga inamoena and Tacinga palmadora, two cactus species native to seasonally dry tropical forest. We evaluated these species’ range dynamics in two Shared Socioeconomic Pathways (SSP), SSP2 and SSP5, for two time periods centered in 2050 and 2070. For this purpose, we used the Maximum Entropy and Boosted Regression Trees tools to model the species distribution. The results indicated a continuous and significant contraction of the species range in the face of climate changes. We estimated that 65% of the range of T. inamoena and 27% of T. palmadora would be lost in the most critical scenario, SSP5/2070. Climate variables, such as annual precipitation and maximum temperature of warmest month, mainly drove this contraction. Results showed a high overlap in potential refugia areas with the target species. Our results can help protect refugia for cacti species, especially those of the genus Tacinga, throughout the Caatinga biome.

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ABSTRACT The restoration of mangroves is crucial for preserving their vital role as ecosystems. Facilitation could assist in the restoration of degraded ecosystems, especially during the first life stages. This study investigated how herbaceous species can facilitate the recruitment and growth of Avicennia germinans in a degraded mangrove area undergoing restoration during extremely dry and rainy seasons typical of northeastern Brazil. The research assessed the densities and growth of A. germinans in the presence of Batis maritima and Sesuvium portulacastrum, and without any other plant species as control during the rainy and dry seasons from 2017 to 2019. The area had been previously disturbed by the salt pond industry abandoned since the late 1980s. The results revealed different facilitation mechanisms. S. portulacastrum and B. maritima promoted 2.6 and 1.7 times higher densities of A. germinans than control plots. While B. maritima had significantly faster growth of A. germinans than S. portulacastrum plots, associated with a capacity of decreasing salinity levels, facilitating mangrove seedlings during dry seasons, S. portulacastrum surpassed B. maritima and control plots in terms of density, which can be profitable for mangrove seedlings during extreme rainy seasons of floods.

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ABSTRACT The main objective of this research work was to investigate active constituents and potential biological activities of Stipagrostis ciliata aerial parts, which may re-explore this plant as an important medicinal plant rather than being used only forage for animals. The results indicated that the total phenolic contents of the methanol, hexane and acetate leaf extract vary from 34.45 and 263.16 mg gallic acid equivalent (EAG)/g of extract. The highest concentrations of phenolics were found in the methanol extract. The results were suggestive that methanol extract is very rich in antioxidant compounds. The highest antioxidant activity was obtained in methanol extract. Stipagrostis ciliata ethyl acetate extract has an IC50 from 0.3 μg/mL. The antibacterial activity of S. ciliata extracts against six bacterial strains showed varying degrees of inhibition on the tested strains. The methanol extract was found to be the most potent (8 to 20.41 mm) against most tested strains and Escherichia coli was the most vulnerable bacteria with a MIC value of 15 µgmL−1. The Liquid Chromatography Electrospray Ionization Tandem Mass Spectrometric (LC-ESI-MS/MS) analyses of methanol and ethyl acetate fractions allowed the identification of six phenolic acids and six flavonoids. The present study shows that S. ciliata could be regarded as a promising plant source of bioactive phenolic compounds with good antioxidant and antibacterial activities.

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Abstract Syringa oblata is an important garden plant whose leaf colour turns from green to red in autumn when air temperature and daylength decrease. This study explored the reasons for leaf reddening by detecting phenotypic characteristics and pigment types and contents. With leaf reddening, luminance L* increased and chrominance a* decreased significantly. Chlorophyll and carotenoid contents significantly decreased in accordance with the distribution change of green pigment in leaf cells. Conversely, the red pigment distribution increased and the total polyphenol, total flavonoid and total anthocyanin contents evidently increased. Anthocyanin accumulation was the important reason for leaf reddening. Of the anthocyanins detected in leaves, cyanidin and delphinidin-3-O-rutinoside contents gradually increased with leaf reddening and were negatively correlated with L*. They were considered key anthocyanins influencing leaf colour. Apigenin and syringic acid were correlated with delphinidin-3-O-rutinoside and cyanidin, and they could be the anthocyanin co-pigments. Cyanidin-3-O-arabinoside and taxifolin were more abundant polyphenols in leaves. In summary, anthocyanin accumulation and chlorophyll degradation occurred along with leaf reddening. Temperature, light, and other co-pigments influenced the anthocyanin and chlorophyll contents. This study provides evidence for applications of S. oblata as a coloured-leaf plant in gardens and as a source of active ingredients in the commercial market.

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Abstract A new species of Duguetia from Reserva Natural Vale, in the Atlantic Forest of the Brazilian state of Espírito Santo, is described and illustrated, and an updated key to the Duguetia species from this state is presented. Duguetia rolimii is known only from two large trees, restricted to the municipality of Linhares. It resembles D. sooretamae in having young twigs densely covered with stellate scales, narrow and shiny leaves with similar dimensions, and fruits with more than 200 fertile monocarps. Nevertheless, these two species can be distinguished from each other mainly by the type of vegetation where they occur, plant size, the density of stellate scales at the lower side of the leaves, the angle between the primary and secondary leaf veins, the shape of the flower buds, length of the upper bract, the shape of the fertile monocarps and indument of the areoles. Comments on distribution, conservation status and field photos of the new species, and comparisons with other related species are provided.

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ABSTRACT Freshwater habitats are among the most degraded environments, with organisms living in multi-stressor conditions. We tested the photosynthetic performance of Oedogonium sp., a freshwater green alga, after exposure to an herbicide combined with temperature increases related to climate change. Treatments were designed by combining nominal concentrations (0.00 or control, 0.05, 0.6 and 1.2 mg/L) of tebuthiuron with temperature increases projected by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change for the scenarios RCP 4.5 (+2.3 ºC) and RCP 8.5 (+3.4 ºC). Treatment concentrations were determined based on i) the maximum concentration allowed by the US Environmental Protection Agency in water bodies, ii) the recommended application dosage by the manufacturer and iii) a worst-case scenario. Chlorophyll a fluorescence analysis showed that tebuthiuron concentrations of 0.6 mg/L or higher, regardless of temperature, negatively affected the photosynthetic performance of the alga, with reduced quantum photosynthetic yield associated with increased non-regulated, non-photochemical energy loss. Oxygen evolution curve analyses revealed a significant drop in the photosynthetic rate of Oedogonium sp. under both RCP scenarios in comparison to the scenario without temperature increase, with decreases ranging from 13% to 70% among treatments. Despite the clear negative effects of exposure to both stressors individually, no combined effect was observed.

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Abstract Riverine forests have high floristic diversity and are heterogeneous, even when they are near each other. Therefore, we aimed to compare three riverine forest remnants of Southern Brazil located in the Pampa biome regarding floristic and structural biodiversity, to: i) check whether the studied forest fragments maintain heterogeneity and high floristic richness as seen in riverine forests, even when close to each other, and ii) indicate the predominant successional groups in each remnant. A total of 81 sampling units were established, and all trees with diameter at breast height ≥ 15 cm were measured. We sampled 1,659 individuals, 67 species, and 34 families. The richness and structure of the three communities differed, confirming the high heterogeneity of riverine forests. One of the remnants had a higher predominance of pioneer species and individuals, which differentiated it from the other two. The latter, in turn, showed higher similarity in floristic and structural composition, with a predominance of secondary and late successional individuals and species. Differences in soil moisture, in the size and shape of fragments may be factors that contributed to the floristic and structural diversity observed. The remnants, although small and surrounded by monocultures, are heterogeneous and important for biodiversity conservation.

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Abstract This study aimed to identify fusarioid fungi in the soils of sustainably managed agricultural areas and a fragment of the Brazilian Caatinga, both in a semi-arid region of Brazil. We provide a survey of peer-reviewed papers reporting the substrates, hosts, and geographic regions in Brazil in which the identified species were of agricultural interest. Soil samples were collected in July 2019, February 2020, and July 2020 from different agroecosystems and a fragment of the Brazilian Caatinga in rural Triunfo, Brazil. Fusarioid fungi were obtained by serial dilution of soil and colony purification using single-conidial culturing. Maximum likelihood evaluation (ML) based on sequences from the tef1-α gene was used to identify fusarioid fungi. The distribution of these species in other agroecosystems and the natural environment in Brazil was assessed by an extensive search of the literature available in public databases. Fusarium annulatum, F. verticillioides, F. lacertarum, and Neocosmospora vasinfecta were identified. These species are distributed throughout Brazil and are registered as plant pathogens, mainly in areas with conventional agriculture. These data reinforce the importance of sustainable soil management in agricultural areas and expand our knowledge of the behavior of these microorganisms in environments without human interference.

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Abstract Grangea maderaspatana is a valuable medicinal plant growing in salt-affected areas, but its tolerance capability, physiological and biochemical responses to salinity is still unclear. To understand these traits, this study examined effects of salinity at different levels (50-400 mM NaCl) on plant growth and its responses. The results shown that the plant’s dry biomass decreased with increasing salinity levels of 100-400 mM NaCl, but its growth was maintained at 400 mM NaCl level with a dry biomass equal to 0.45 times that of the control, indicating that G. maderaspatana had a tolerance ability to high salinity. The plant also had adaptive responses to the salinity. The content of leaf chlorophylls and carotenoids were retained, even enhanced by 50-200 mM NaCl, suggesting a high adaptation of photosynthesis. Proline, Na+, and Cl- was highly accumulated while the accumulation of K+ and NO3 - was maintained with 200-400 mM NaCl, indicating that the plant had adaptive mechanisms for osmotic adjustment and ion homeostasis. Antioxidative activities of catalase, superoxide dismutase, and peroxidase were enhanced by the salinity. These findings are useful information for understanding salt tolerance mechanisms and for utilization of this medicinal plant in saline agriculture.

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ABSTRACT The literature reveals difficulties in taxonomic and phylogenetic delimitations of Miconia Ruiz & Pav. and Leandra Raddi (Melastomataceae), it’s suggested that leaf anatomical characters, particularly the trichomes, can be useful within the genera. Characters related to the trichomes and leaf blade structure of 15 species of Miconieae (five species of Leandra and ten species of Miconia) were evaluated as a taxonomic criterion to separate the selected species. In addition, some considerations were made about the structure of the leaves, which can be affected by environmental factors. Leaf samples were obtained from herbaria and anatomically investigated using optical microscopy and scanning electron microscopy. Leaves are hypostomatous, dorsiventral or isobilateral, and exhibit epidermis in general with non- glandular and glandular trichomes. A hypodermis has been found only in Miconia theaezans. Conical trichomes and mixed trichomes (non-glandular and glandular) are present only in the five species of Leandra. Dendritic trichomes have been found in species of both genera. Leaf features of potential taxonomic significance are the trichome types, presence of hypodermis, number of layer palisade parenchyma, occurrence of gelatinous fibers, midrib structure, and margin structure. Xeromorphic and sclerophyllous features are present in Leandra and Miconia species, and Leandra microphylla may be considered a xerophyte.

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Abstract Seed dispersal is a process that can drive the spatial distribution of the community and subsequent plant-to-plant interaction and the study of these processes provides information for biodiversity management. Seed dispersal has been scarcely studied for Tamaulipan thornscrub, but dispersal syndromes based on fruit and seed characteristics are helpful to predict sites of seed deposition. In the present work, we determine the spatial relationships between seedlings and saplings around adult trees with different dispersal syndromes and infer the interactions through the community with spatial point pattern analysis using univariate and bivariate pair correlation functions, as well as multivariate Spatially explicit Simpson index β(r) and Individual species-area relationship (ISAR). We found a clustered distribution pattern of animal-dispersed seedlings and saplings at 1 m around adult trees, regardless of the dispersal syndrome. We also observed a repulsion of these seedlings at 7-9 m from the stems. Non-animal dispersed adult trees, seedlings, and saplings exhibited a random distribution. Species with animal dispersal syndrome are clumped and have mainly interspecific interactions at a small scale. Using dispersal syndromes, our findings illustrate the influence that seed dispersion might have on the spatial organization and intra- and interspecific interactions of species of Tamaulipan thornscrub.

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Abstract Seaweeds have been used by several industrial sectors, such as the food, feed, pharmaceutical and biofuel industries. Thereby, techniques to increase seaweed production are needed due to the rising global demand for biomass. Thus, we investigated the effects of different weekly nutrient pulses [N and P at ratios of 10:1 (T1), 20:2 (T2), and 50:5 (T3)] on the biomass, relative growth rate (RGR) and biochemical composition of Gracilaria domingensis. A control without nutrient pulses was also established. The highest biomass values were recorded in T1. The RGR was more constant in T1 and T2 than in T3 throughout the cultivation. Significant decreases in RGR were observed in the control compared to the other treatments, and null RGR was recorded in T3. Regarding the seaweed biochemical composition, the lowest carbohydrate and lipid content and the highest ash content were recorded in T1. In our study, G. domingensis showed nutritional values similar or even superior to those reported for other seaweeds used as food. We concluded that T1 is the most suitable treatment to increase G. domingensis production. In addition to being the least expensive treatment, in T1, G. domingensis exhibited the highest biomass values, constant RGR, and nutritional composition suitable for human consumption.

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ABSTRACT We discuss the importance of fern and lycophyte species in the Atlantic Forest ecosystem as well as the need for floristic inventories to understand their distribution and conservation status. We focus on the Serra do Papagaio region in southeastern Brazil, which is known for its high plant diversity but lacks comprehensive inventories of ferns and lycophytes. In this study, we conducted a floristic inventory of Serra do Papagaio and identified 172 fern and 29 lycophyte species. Our findings reveal 21 threatened species and two new records for Minas Gerais State. Additionally, we compared the floristic composition of Serra do Papagaio with that of other areas within the Atlantic Forest using non-metric multidimensional scaling (NMDS) and generalized dissimilarity modeling (GDM) analyses. The results highlight distinct clusters of areas based on elevation and geographic location. We emphasize the need for further sampling and conservation efforts in Serra do Papagaio as well as provide valuable insights into the drivers of fern and lycophyte diversity in the Atlantic Forest.

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Abstract We describe, discuss and illustrate Alstroemeria maranhensis, a new species from the Cerrado domain in south-central Maranhão State, Brazil. We also provide a distribution map, a photographic plate and taxonomic comments. The new species is morphologically similar to A. viridiflora, though differs by having predominantly white flowers (vs. reddish or yellowish in A. viridiflora), falcate lower outer tepals (vs. not falcate) and obovate-spatulate lower inner tepal with attenuate and flat base (vs. spatulate without attenuate and/or flat base).

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ABSTRACT Brazilwood is an endemic species of the Brazilian Atlantic Forest and the microfungi associated with it are understudied. We present an extensive checklist of microfungi and report two new species discovered in the state of Bahia: Camposporium paubrasiliae sp. nov. and Xylomyces vesiculifer sp. nov. We also present seven new records of microfungal occurrence: Vermiculariopsiella arcicula Pasqualetti & Zucconi for the Americas, Junewangia lamma (Whitton, McKenzie & K.D.Hyde) W.A.Baker & Morgan-Jones, Monodictys abuensis (Chouhan & Panwar) V.Rao & de Hoog, and Sporidesmium altum (Preuss) M.B.Ellis for South America; and Phaeocandelabrum joseiturriagae R.F.Castañeda, Iturr., Heredia & M.Stadler, Sarcopodium circinatum Ehrenb., and Tetraploa ellisii Cooke, for Brazilwood. The checklist comprises 145 microfungal taxa, distributed among 94 genera, 49 families, 25 orders, seven classes, and three phyla, namely Ascomycota, Basidiomycota, and Mucoromycota. Furthermore, we provide a temporal analysis of the records and relevant bibliography on microfungi in Brazilwood, along with information on their ecological relationships and geographical distribution in Brazil.

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Abstract Studies on the cultural importance of unconventional food plants (UFP) have been scarce, in contrast to a vast literature focusing on medicinal plants. We adopted the widely used criterion of cultural importance to study UFP used in two quilombola communities in Bahia State, northeastern Brazil. Free-listing was applied to identify known/used food plants in the communities, and semi-structured interviews were carried out to collect information about them. Statistical analyses were performed using a correlation matrix of importance values. A random sample of the numbers of citations per species indicated a strong correlation between cultivated and wild species. The average ages of the two communities were similar, but indicated an influence of age on their knowledge of non-conventional plants and their consumption. Both wild and cultivated species have relevant cultural importance. Deforestation, the lack of availability of unconventional food plants, and the ease of access to conventional and industrialized foods are all directly related to the low consumption of UFP, pointing to a lack of nutritional and health information in those communities.

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Abstract Spatio-temporal variation in the quantity and quality of resources available to insects influence the strength and direction of interactions with plants, ultimately affecting the preference of insects and also plant performance. Florivory encompasses the consumption of floral resources and has both direct and indirect effects on plant reproduction and performance. In this study, we evaluated how synchronic flowering of phylogenetic-related plant species blooming in an urban landscape affected insect florivores. Flowers from six plant species belonging to the Bignoniaceae family were sampled and florivory was measured as the frequency of attacked flowers (florivory incidence) as well as the amount of floral area removed (florivory intensity). We detected species-specific variation in florivory incidence and intensity in the urban landscape and our spatial analysis indicated that plants that were close (< 200 m apart) and in simultaneous blooming had significantly correlated levels of florivory than plants that were far apart (almost 1 km). Our data indicates complex relationships between insects and flowers and we suggest that a throughout evaluation of insect community and dispersal ability is necessary to understand the patterns of florivory in trees, as well as its effects on plant reproduction and insect attraction.

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Abstract The aim of this study was to investigate the concentration of phenols, flavonoids and tannins and the antimicrobial activity of methanol, ethyl-acetate and acetone extracts of the species Filipendula ulmaria (L.) Maxim. The antimicrobial activity of the extracts was determined for ten different bacterial species. The total concentration of phenols, flavonoids and tannins in the tested extracts was determined spectrophotometrically. The results show that the amount of tested compounds largely depends on the type of solvent used for extraction from the plant material. The total amount of phenols, flavonoids and tannins was higher in polar solvents compared to the non-polar solvent. The highest concentration of phenols was observed in the flower (74.55 mg GA/g), and the lowest concentration of flavonoids was measured in the root (0.04 mg RU/g). The methanol extract of the flower had the highest, whereas the acetone stem extract exhibited the lowest antioxidant activity. Antimicrobial activity, expressed as a minimum inhibitory concentration, was in the range from 0.312 to 10 mg/ml. The tested Gram-positive bacteria were more sensitive than the Gram-negative bacteria. Based on the obtained results, F. ulmaria was proved to be a rich source of phenols, flavonoids, tannins and antioxidants therefore being a prospective natural antimicrobial agent.

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Abstract Ornamental horticulture is recognized as an important pathway for introducing alien plants into new habitats. Ornamental plants have been escaping from cultivated environments for centuries, and human actions are regarded as critical factors in the invasion process as they facilitate the spread of species beyond their native habitats. Understanding the diversity of invasive alien ornamental plants is essential for interpreting current trends, measuring and predicting impacts on biodiversity and economy, and guiding biosecurity programs. This paper presents a list of invasive alien ornamental plants in Brazil, addresses the Brazilian situation regarding invasive alien ornamental plants, and discusses issues related to preferred invasion habitats, origin, ecology, and management of the species. Surveys in national databases and queries to global databases were conducted to determine the invasive alien ornamental plants in Brazil. The list includes 125 ornamental plant species (53 botanical families, 40 trees, 30 shrubs, and 29 herbaceous plants). Species of Asian origin predominate. Degraded areas and forest formations are the preferred invasion habitats. The list will serve as a basis for legislation on the introduction of alien plants, biosafety programs in Brazil and neighboring nations, and will contribute to public involvement on the issue of invasive species.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract Porang (Amorphophallus muelleri Blume) is a tuber crop that possesses significant potential as an alternative food source, primarily attributed to its substantial glucomannan content. To support the development of porang in Indonesia, it is crucial to focus on expanding its cultivation in saline areas to enhance productivity. This study aims to assess the morphophysiological responses of porang under various saline concentrations over a defined period. Porang was grown in soil treated with various NaCl concentrations of 0, 50, 100, 150, and 200 mM for 14 days until harvest. The study revealed that salinity stress had a detrimental impact on tuber mass and diameter, root length, plant height, leaf area, stomatal closure, and stomatal density. In terms of physiological changes, the total chlorophyll content, net assimilation rate (NAR), glucomannan content, and transpiration rate were reduced. The study of gene expression showed SuSy2 expression increased up to 1.55-fold at 150 mM, whereas CSLA3 increased up to 3-fold at 100 mM. To conclude, porang has the potential to be cultivated in saline soil up to 50 mM. These outcomes serve as valuable information and genetic resources for the future development of improved porang varieties.

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Abstract Lantaneae stands out as the largest lineage within the Verbenaceae, and advancing systematic and taxonomic studies within this tribe is crucial to clarify the circumscription of non-monophyletic genera and elucidate its species richness. In Brazil, the taxonomic knowledge of Lantaneae is still in progress, particularly regarding the genera Lantana and Lippia. Here, we describe Lippia aonae, a new species from the campos rupestres of the Espinhaço Range, Cerrado domain, in the north of Minas Gerais state. It is a subshrub 0.4‒0.6 m tall, with viscous and aromatic leaves, inflorescences with small bracts and corollas, and drupaceous fruits. A detailed description, illustrations, comparison with morphologically related species, and a geographical distribution map are provided for its recognition. Following the IUCN criteria, Lippia aonae can be considered as Vulnerable (VU).

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ABSTRACT Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) communities in coffee-cultivated areas in the northeastern region of Brazil have been insufficiently studied when compared to other Brazilian regions. This study determined AMF occurrence and richness in coffee-cultivated soils under different management systems in the State of Bahia, Brazil, and in soils from surrounding areas with pasture and native forest (control areas). Physicochemical soil characteristics in the different study areas were also evaluated. A total of 43 AMF spore morphotypes in 14 genera belonging to six families were recovered from soil samples from all study areas: Glomeraceae (35%), Acaulosporaceae (35%), Gigasporaceae (21%), Ambisporaceae (5%), Archaeosporaceae (2%) and Diversisporaceae (2%). Rhizophagus fasciculatus, Acaulospora mellea and Glomus sp. 1 were the most frequent fungi found in all areas. In the coffee-cultivated areas, 12 genera were identified, two of which (Dominikia and Fuscutata) had not yet been reported in association with coffee plants in Brazil. We concluded that soil physicochemical properties and AMF occurrence can distinguish study areas based on land use. The different coffee management systems did not influence AMF species richness, but the occurrence was influenced by both management and soil factors.

Resumo em Inglês:

ABSTRACT Plants interact in positive ways, facilitating each other. We can use this facilitative effect in agriculture by intercropping crop plants with aromatic plants that provide benefits such as the repulsion of pests, resulting in a reduction of agrochemical inputs and higher crop productivity. Considering this potential benefit, we conducted a study in an olive grove to test the effect of the aromatic plants basil (Ocimum basilicum) and rosemary (Salvia rosmarinus) on olive (Olea europaea) production. We planted six aromatic saplings under olive trees (20 trees with basil and 20 with rosemary) and selected 20 olive trees with no aromatic plants as a control group. To estimate the productivity of olive trees, we measured the number of inflorescences per tree, the number of fruits, and the average fruit weight. After nine months, we did not find a significant difference in the productivity of olive trees intercropped with aromatic plants compared to olives without the association. However, basil and rosemary had low mortality rates and showed substantial growth. Consequently, while probably not increasing olive production, the absence of negative effects on olive productivity indicates that intercropping aromatic plants and olives is viable and might provide diversification and economic resilience to small farmers.

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Abstract The threatened orchid Cattleya milleri is a microendemic orchid of a Brazilian savanna hotspot. As endophytes and mycorrhizae may improve its propagation and conservation, we investigated its root fungal community. Cattleya milleri roots were sampled in five natural sites and at a greenhouse. Fungal root endophytes were isolated for characterization and molecular ITS (Internal Transcribed Spacer) identification. Total DNA was extracted from endorhiza and rhizosphere for ITS amplification and sequencing. Sixteen fungal isolates were clustered in 6 Operational Taxonomic Units (OTUs) and endorhizal and rhizospheric sequences were clustered in 327 OTUs. Endorhiza presented from 25 to 89 OTUs, and rhizosphere 56 OTUs. Cluster analysis showed high divergence between natural and greenhouse fungal communities, but similarity among natural samples. From the 94 genera, 24 were annotated as endophytes, two mycorrhizas, 33 pathotrophs, 40 saprotrophs, and 17 symbiotrophs based on the FunGuild database. Endophytes of the orders Capnodiales, Hypocreales, Pleosporales, and mycorrhizae of Sebacinales occurred in all sites. The mycorrhizae Tulasnella occurred in all natural samples. The interaction with only two mycorrhizal taxa may limit C. milleri distribution. However, the recruitment of many non-mycorrhizal endophytes is essential to natural development. Pleosporales, Tulasnella, and Sebacinalles may be considered for C. milleri propagation and conservation.

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Abstract Parablechnum cordatum (Blechnaceae) exhibits significant morphological variability, with many species considered as its synonyms, and is treated as a species complex by several authors. In this study, we offer a comprehensive revision of the taxon and an updated circumscription of Parablechnum usterianum, a species frequently confused with P. cordatum, leading to a refined understanding of species delimitation. Our analysis, based on morphological and spore micro- and ultrastructural examination of Brazilian specimens within the complex, recognizes three distinct species: Parablechnum cordatum s.s., Parablechnum brasiliense, and Parablechnum regnellianum, the latter being treated as a synonym but now resurrected with a new combination. Here, we present a key to the species, along with detailed descriptions, diagnostic images, distribution maps, lectotypifications, synonymies, and nomenclatural clarifications.

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Abstract At an intraspecific scale, plants exhibit trait adjustments to their respective habitat, playing a pivotal role in species distribution across environmental gradients. We aimed to understand whether and how Curatella americana L. (Dilleniaceae) varies in leaf and wood morphoanatomical traits among three Amazon open vegetation types under distinct edaphic conditions. We tested the hypothesis that soil properties drive variation in species' functional traits and resource-use strategies. We collected plant and soil samples at seven sites (three savannas, two campinarana and two restinga) and functional traits were measured for 70 C. americana individuals. The variation in intraspecific traits was associated with soil properties. In the restinga, individuals exhibited the highest specific leaf area influenced by fine sand and sodium. However, in the savanna, soil variables prompted morphoanatomical responses related to leaf dry-matter content, leaf thickness, largest lumen resistivity, the lowest wood density and average vessel area. The campinarana sites have strong affinities for clay and pH. We highlight the continuum of conservative-acquisitive functional strategies, exhibited by C. americana across Amazonian open vegetation, showing the adaptability to diverse environmental conditions. Strategies vary within individuals based on tissue type, suggesting decoupling between leaf and wood levels, with traits operating independently at both levels.

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Abstract This study brings the updated flora of the Cerrado Pé-de-Gigante (CPG) - which is part of the Vassununga State Park and one of the largest remnants of the Cerrado biome in São Paulo state, in Brazil - as well as information regarding the conservation status of the CPG flora. The plant list was produced through a systematic review of existing literature, virtual herbaria, and on-site field validation. In such an area of just over 1200 hectares, we documented a total of 683 plant species, including angiosperms, ferns, lycophytes and bryophytes. Notably, our fieldwork revealed 11 previously unrecorded plant species. Concerning the conservation condition of the native flora, four are in threat categories - three as Vulnerable (VU) and one Endangered (EN) - and five are Near Threatened (NT); we also highlight the presence of 18 exotic species with invasive potential that pose a significant threat to the local ecosystems by contributing to habitat degradation and species extinction. We emphasize the relevance of the CPG in the context of biodiversity conservation, especially considering that the remaining Cerrado vegetation in São Paulo state is found mostly in small fragments and often inadequately protected.

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Abstract Radulaceae is one of the most isolated lineages of leafy liverworts. This family contains three genera and between 200 and 350 extant species worldwide. Most species belong to the genus Radula, which is subdivided into five subgenera and remains taxonomically challenging. In the framework of an integrative taxonomic revision of Radulaceae in tropical America, we are paying special attention to understudied features that may be taxonomically informative, such as spores. Here, we perform the first palynological evaluation of sixteen species of Radulaceae. The spores were processed by standard palynological techniques and described using light and electron microscopy. The spores of Radulaceae are isomorphic monads, apolar in species of the genus Radula and cryptopolar in Cladoradula, usually small to medium-sized, rarely large, inaperturate, with a circular to slightly elongated outline. The spore surface is ornamented with rounded elements, here called Granulate-type ornamentation, or with elongated elements, called Echinate-type ornamentation, and shows differences in each species. The palynological data, especially spore ornamentation, can make an important contribution to Radulaceae taxonomy for separating species or groups of species. The groups found here, however, do not fully correspond to generic and infrageneric circumscriptions as supported by molecular-phylogenetic evidence.

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Abstract Pollen morphology serves as a valuable tool for taxonomic characterization and evolutionary studies. In this study, we conducted a detailed morphological analysis of pollen grains from 16 species of Machaerium Pers. (Fabaceae) occurring in São Paulo, Brazil. Pollen samples were obtained from herbarium specimens and subjected to both qualitative and quantitative analyses using light microscopy and scanning electron microscopy. Our results confirm the stenopalynous character of Machaerium pollen, characterized by monads, isopolar pollen grains, 3-colporate with narrow colpi, and microreticulate exine. Quantitative measurements of colpus length and width, and endoaperture width, proved to be relevant for species differentiation. Additionally, qualitative characteristics such as pollen size, amb, shape, aperture position, presence of fastigium, and the thickness of the exine layer were identified as distinguishing factors among species. Despite variations observed, our analysis did not reveal distinct pollen features for taxonomic sections within the genus, indicating a high degree of pollen similarity among species. These findings contribute to our understanding of pollen morphology in Machaerium species and highlight the importance of pollen characteristics in taxonomic studies and evolutionary research.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract The objective of this work was to evaluate the effects of iron mining tailings on seed germination, photosynthetic capacity, and biomass accumulation of macaúba palm (Acrocomia aculeata) seedlings. After operculum removal, seed germination tests were conducted on two substrates: iron mining tailings and vermiculite (control). No significant difference was observed between treatments in the total percentage of germinated seeds, 68% and 65% for vermiculite and tailings, respectively. In a second essay, the macaúba palm seedlings were grown using four different substrates: a reference soil (mixture of red oxisol and sand), tailings, fertilized reference soil, and fertilized tailings. No significant differences were observed for the chlorophyll indices. Plants in the reference soil showed significantly higher net photosynthesis, stomatal conductance, and transpiration rate. However, plants in fertilized tailing showed greater photochemical efficiency compared to those without fertilization. The study concludes that A. aculeata maintains its germination capacity in iron mining tailings. Tailing fertilization increased macaúba seedling dry mass and leaf area with greater CO2 assimilation and photochemical efficiency. Thus, the macaúba palm is a promising plant component for rehabilitating degraded areas impacted by iron ore mining activities.

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Abstract This study is the first effort to provide comparative information about soil diatom assemblages in organic (OF) and conventional (CF) rice fields. We aimed to investigate whether soil diatom assemblages (richness, relative abundance and species composition) differ between organic and conventional systems and detect alterations after the application of herbicides (clomazone and penoxsulam). Surface sediment was collected using a core (10 cm diameter, 2 cm depth) at three sites in each system in Rio Grande do Sul State, South Brazil. Live motile diatoms were isolated from the sediment using the trapping method. The presence and concentration of residual herbicides in the soil and the pH and temperature of interstitial water were measured. OF had higher temperatures and lower pH than CF. The diatom assemblages differed significantly in richness, composition, and relative abundance; OF had greater total richness (123 species) than CF (79 species).PinnulariaandNitzschiawere the richest genera for CF, whilePinnulariaandEunotiawere the richest for OF. Exclusive taxa were detected in OF and the relative abundance of species was related to the sampling period in CF.

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Abstract Caatinga is one of the largest and most important seasonally dry phytophysiognomies in the neotropical region, with high species diversity and endemism. Asteraceae is constantly neglected in floristic studies of Caatinga areas, and the richness, distribution and conservation status of members of the family in this area are little known. The objective of this paper is to provide an overview of the diversity, distribution, collection activity and endemic species conservation status of Asteraceae occurring in the Caatinga. We created an Asteraceae dataset for Caatinga, which was analyzed in a GIS environment to verify the intensity of collections and species richness; using the same dataset, we created the checklist and carried out the preliminary conservation status of endemic species. Our results show that a total of 137 species (16 endemic) and 82 genera within 16 tribes occur within the Caatinga. We highlight that areas with greater species richness and collection density concentrate in the north, central northeast and central-south portions of the Caatinga and that, although a certain spatial imbalance was observed, these variables present a high correlation, with collections explaining 90.92% of the species richness. Finally, a preliminary conservation status assessment revealed that among the endemic species, all are threatened.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract Indonesia has a rich history of using medicinal plants, particularly among indigenous communities. However, documentation of these practices is limited, especially for communities in customary forests. This study aimed to document the medicinal plants used by indigenous peoples in Rantau Kermas and Pulau Tengah villages, located in Jambi Province, Indonesia. The study employed an ethnobotanical method, using in-depth interviews and participatory observation with an emic approach. The Pebble Distribution Method and the local user’s value index (LUVI) were applied to evaluate the uses of medicinal plants among the communities. The results indicate that the customary communities in both villages used approximately 65 plant species from 56 genera and 32 families to treat newborns, digestive system disorders, fever, and non-clinical diseases. The highest LUVI value (1.53%) recorded from the community in Rantau Kermas Village was obtained from the application of paku resam (Dicranopteris linearis (Burm.f.) Underw.), used mainly for reducing fever. In Pulau Tengah Village, the highest LUVI value (1.74%) was obtained from the consumption of limau kapau (Citrus x aurantiifolia (Christm) Swingle) Swingle for treating stroke and bradyphrenia. The majority of these medicinal plants used are exotic species. Therefore, further phytochemical and pharmacological investigation to enhance their utilization value while ensuring their sustainability.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract Anthropic actions alter several aspects of natural landscapes. The loss of riparian vegetation, for example, alters the integrity of streams and affects biological communities, such as aquatic macrophytes. Here, we evaluate how local environmental variables (water’s physical and chemical factors and the physical integrity of streams) and landscape variables (land use) alter the species richness and composition of aquatic macrophytes in Amazon streams. We sampled 13 streams in Barcarena, Pará, Brazil. We identified the macrophyte species inside a 50 m stretch. We also determined the water’s physical and chemical parameters, physical integrity, and land use around the streams. We recorded 25 macrophyte species belonging to six morpho-ecological groups; amphibious and emergent were the most representative. Nitrite was significantly and positively related to macrophyte richness. Macrophytes species composition was significantly related to pH, temperature, habitat integrity index, and alkalinity. Environments with low integrity and higher temperature and pH were associated with emergent morpho-ecological groups, whereas some amphibious were associated with higher integrity. Our study brings new information about the occurrence of macrophytes in Amazon streams, the role played by amphibious and emergent morpho-ecological groups, and the greater importance of local factors compared to landscape factors in shaping macrophyte richness and composition.

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Abstract In this study, we present and discuss the recognition of Garcinia madruno as a species complex. The taxonomic limits of G. madruno are discussed with the related species, and the names and type collections of the respective synonyms were analyzed. Based on morphological data, three new species (Garcinia ieda-amaralae Mouzinho & M.L.Soares, G. guttifolia Mouzinho & L.Marinho and G. kaiabiana Mouzinho) are proposed, as well as the reestablishment of G. floribunda Miq. Descriptions, photographs, distribution maps and taxonomic comments are provided. In addition, a taxonomic identification key and comparative table for the morphological characters of the Garcinia species with ornate fruit are presented.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract A new species of Passifloraceae sensu stricto, Passiflora natalensis, from the Atlantic Forest of Rio Grande do Norte, Brazil, is described. It differs from P. cincinnata mainly by these five characteristics: i) the presence of two to three smooth and lustrous glands in the base of the petiole; ii) always 5-lobed leaves, with the presence of one or two pairs of horizontal slits in the leaf blade’s central lobe; iii) none, one or two pairs of horizontal slits in adjacent lobe, iv) absence of the operculum, a rare characteristic in Passiflora species and, v) a sparsely pubescent ovary. Commentaries concerning its morphological traits and similar species, geographic distribution, ecology, preliminary conservation status, and photos are provided.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract A new species of Cunninghamella was isolated during an expedition searching for mucoralean fungi from soil in an upland tropical forest area in the state of Pernambuco, Brazil. The new species was described based on morphophysiological and phylogenetic data (ITS and LSU rDNA sequences). It typically forms unbranched sporophores, though there is some monopodial and sympodial branching. Verticillate branches arising in whorls of up to three from the main sporophore are rarely observed. Vesicles varied-shaped with one to several broken pedicels or warts on their surface and commonly with immature pedicellate sporangiola are formed. Chlamydospores are globose. Better growth was observed at temperatures of 25 and 30 °C on MEA. The new species was positioned closer to a clade containing C. clavata, C. subclavata, and C. verrucosa with high support values. In this study, a new species of Cunninghamella is proposed and an updated identification key for Cunninghamella is provided.

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Abstract The Nascentes do Rio Parnaíba National Park (NRPNP) is the largest conservation unit in the Brazilian Cerrado, featuring various physiognomic types and water resources. We investigated the richness and composition of bryophytes at the NRPNP in different phytophysiognomies, along with substrates of preference, reproductive aspects and geographical distribution of the species. A total of 1,941 bryophyte specimens were identified, representing 77 species and one subspecies, 48 genera and 27 families. Four species were new occurrences for the Brazilian Cerrado and Frullania eboracensis Lehm. is reported for the first time in Brazil. The gallery forest showed the highest species richness (72 spp./54 exclusives), followed by vereda (17/two) and savanna (11/one), with only three species shared by these phytophysiognomies. Fifty-six species showed a preference for colonizing rocks, but mostly mosses, while liverworts prevailed on trunks. Monoicous species (64%) predominated over dioicous ones. Most species exhibit a broad geographic distribution across Brazilian domains and the Neotropics. The results confirmed that phytophysiognomies with higher humidity and shading showed more complex species richness and composition, highlighting the importance of gallery forest for the maintenance of the bryophyte flora in the Brazilian Cerrado.

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Abstract The structure and water availability in the understory of the humid forest of Chapada do Araripe, Northeastern Brazil, are very heterogeneous. This environment is affected by the mono-dominance of babassu palms (Attalea speciosa) and other forms of anthropogenic disturbance. The objective of this work was to examine the use of bryophytes as indirect bioindicators of environmental quality in this forest. Epiphytic bryophytes were collected in localities with distinct levels of babassu dominance and springs/streams. Additionally, proxies for anthropogenic disturbances, humidity and light conditions were evaluated. Functional groups and the species composition were investigated. Our results demonstrated that the region has a high level of environmental heterogeneity. Anthropogenic disturbance was the main driver shaping species composition and abiotic conditions mediated the effects on species. Sites with higher levels of disturbance and greater abundance of babassu palms and canopy opening further limited the distribution of species that require high levels of humidity and shade specialists and favored sun specialists and generalists compared to environments with greater water availability. Therefore, abiotic and anthropic factors are important to understanding the relationships between bryophyte ecology and the environment, helping to predict changes in these assemblages driven by changes in the environment.

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Abstract A significant correlation between water level fluctuations and morphological traits in macrophytes is well-documented, especially in shallow water species. However, predicting morpho-anatomical characteristics in submerged plants across water depths remains challenging. We investigated morpho-anatomical variations in Heteranthera zosterifolia stems from a deep flooded doline at three depths: surface, 2.5m, and 5m. The anatomical survey followed standard protocols, and variance analysis was used based on the measurements obtained. Our study revealed significant differences in the stem and aerenchyma area, number of air channels, cortex thickness, stele-cortex ratio, and average vessel diameter between surface specimens and those from greater depths. The anatomical survey highlighted a greater investment in the cortex and aerenchyma area in water surface specimens, potentially related to structural stability and buoyancy. This challenges the conventional belief that deeper water increases the stem’s area and number of air channels, questioning the traditional association of aerenchyma solely with oxygen transport. Moreover, a balance in vessel diameter between surface and deeper specimens suggests considerations for transport efficiency, protection against water stress, and buoyancy needs. The morpho-anatomical adaptation of the H. zosterifolia stem yields significant implications for the strategies employed by the species for survival and growth in deep aquatic environments.

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ABSTRACT Two new species of Maripa (Convolvulaceae) are described in the Northern Andean Region of South America. Maripa daironii M.Pastore has been found in Colombia, specifically in the inter-Andean valleys of the Antioquia, Bolívar, Cesar, and Santander departments, in rainforests at elevations ranging from 100 to 400 meters. Maripa marimba M.Pastore has been recorded in Ecuador, specifically in the provinces of Esmeraldas and Pichincha, in submontane rainforests at elevations between 500 and 1,400 meters. The first is mainly recognized by the furfuraceous indumentum composed of radiate peltate trichomes, inflorescence in typical thyrses with foliaceous bracts, infundibuliform corolla, and yellow fruits with patent sepals. The second is mainly recognized by racemiform cyme, campanulate corolla, and ellipsoid fruits with patent sepals. Detailed morphological descriptions, illustrations, photographs, a distribution map, an identification key, and comparisons with similar species are provided for both new species. Additionally, the conservation status of each species is preliminary assessed according to IUCN criteria. Maripa daironii has been classified as Vulnerable (VU), while M. marimba has been classified as Least Concern (LC).

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract As part of ongoing studies of Solanum in South America, three new species of the Geminata clade are described for Colombia. Solanum caquetense J.D.Tovar sp. nov., from the Department of Caquetá, is a riverside shrub found in lowland rainforests, with willow-like leaves characteristic of rheophyte plants. Solanum pinguiculum J.D. Tovar sp. nov. is confined to the understory of cloud forests on the eastern Andean slopes in the Departments of Cauca, Huila, and Putumayo, and is a tiny subshrub with somewhat watery stems and minute flowers. Solanum sabu J.D. Tovar sp. nov. is a rare plant, represented by a single collection from the eastern Andean slopes of the Cordillera Central in the Department of Tolima; it is a shrub with loose dendritic trichomes on abaxial leaf surface, and is described here to encourage further investigation in the field and herbaria. Differences between these new taxa and morphologically similar species are discussed, and photos, preliminary conservation status, and distribution maps are provided for all newly described species. To facilitate the identification of these morphologically very similar plants, a dichotomous key for all members of the Geminata clade occurring in Colombia is provided together with a synopsis of their distribution by Department.

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Abstract We present an updated list of Orchidaceae species and their distribution data in the mesoregions of the state of Pará, Brazil, based on a systematic review of the literature and analysis of herbarium voucher specimens (and their labels) to confirm the occurrences of the species in the state. Our list has 434 species belonging to 98 genera; 209 species are endemic to the Amazon and 44 are restricted to the state of Pará. We also present 45 new records for the state. Catasetum, Epidendrum, Habenaria, and Maxillaria are the genera with the greatest species richness. Orchids were collected in all mesoregions of the state. Still, collections are absent in 21 of the 144 municipalities of the state, indicating the need for surveys and floristic assessments to understand the factors that influence the distribution of the species at the regional level and assist in conservation actions in the state.

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Abstract Coccoloba is the most diverse woody neotropical genus of the Polygonaceae, with four widely recognized biodiversity centers: the Atlantic Forest, the Amazon Rainforest, Central America, and the Caribbean Islands. However, the boundaries of these centers have never been tested. To address this, we compiled 6,989 records of 146 taxa of Coccoloba. The distribution pattern was analyzed using the K-means clustering; Centers of endemism were identified by PAE and Endemicity Analysis; and centers of richness and diversity were analyzed in Diva-Gis. The GDM model was used to understand the drivers of species distributions. Seven distribution patterns and eight areas of endemism were recovered. Areas of high richness and diversity are found in Central America, the Caribbean Islands and the Atlantic Forest. The Amazon Rainforest has no area of high species richness, although it has a small area with high diversity. The dissimilarity in Coccoloba species composition is strongly related to geographic distance, solar radiation in April, precipitation of wettest quarter, and mean temperature of warmest quarter drivers. We conclude that the geographic diversity centers previously suggested in the literature are too simplistic to accurately describe centers of biodiversity for Coccoloba, rather, they correspond to the main distribution patterns of Coccoloba species.

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Abstract Sambucus australis (Viburnaceae) is a wild and native species from South America used in traditional medicine. The objective of this review is to collect information on geographic distribution, systematics and phylogeny, morphological and anatomical characteristics, biochemical composition, and biological and ethnobotanical activity for its valorization as a wild food plant with edible and medicinal properties. S. australis grows naturally in Brazil, Paraguay, Bolivia, Uruguay, and Argentina. It is a shrub or small dioecious tree. Leaves are imparipinnate, generally with 11 opposite leaflets. Flowers with a 1-cm diameter are presented in inflorescences as terminal corymbs, with an inferior, pentacarpellate and pentalocular ovary. Leaves and flowers have a high content of total phenols. The following secondary metabolites were found: quercetin, isoquercetrin, quercetin, Kaempferol, hyperoside, rutin, and di-O-caffeoylquinic, chlorogenic, gallic, caffeic, and ellagic acids. Its biological activity was described as anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, allelopathic, antiproliferative, antigenotoxic, antiparasitic, hypoglycemic, lipid-lowering, antibacterial and synergizing. Ethnobotanical studies have shown that its flowers, leaves, fruits, bark and roots are used to treat asthma, colds, flu, diabetes, measles, etc. Knowledge about the characteristics, properties, and uses of S. australis is an important contribution for its valorization, conservation, sustainable use and domestication

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ABSTRACT Since the dawn of civilization, it has been understood what natural resources were and their importance for the survival and development of humanity. The environmental history, until payment for ecosystem services, was marked by conservationist and preservationist thoughts that took different directions regarding the "value of nature" and "payment for nature's services" but that consented to maintaining biodiversity. In the 20th century, after the publication of the first works on the categorization and valuation of ecosystem services, a certain consensus began to emerge regarding the commercialization of these services. Subsequently, several payment markets for ecosystem services emerged, such as the carbon market, which in 2021 reached the level of 2 billion dollars in transactions. Studies assessing the growth of the carbon market may provide relevant information for implementing payment projects for carbon credits, encouraging the maintenance of biodiversity and mitigation of climate change.

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ABSTRACT Invasive species affect ecosystems all over the world. Their impacts intensify when there are beneficial effects among different invasive species, an invasional meltdown. The Argentine black and white tegu lizard, Salvator merianae (Squamata: Teiidae), and the plant Eugenia uniflora (Myrtaceae) are native to mainland South America but behave as invasive species in other parts of the world. We tested the effectiveness of S. merianae as a seed disperser of E. uniflora. Tegu feces containing seeds of E. uniflora were collected to compare the seed germination of gut-passed seeds, manually de-pulped seeds, and seeds of whole fruits. Survival analysis indicated that Tegu lizards behave as seed dispersers of E. uniflora, and there was a tendency for gut-passed seeds to germinate faster than non-gut-passed seeds. Tegu lizards may carry seeds in their guts for considerable distances, facilitating the spread of E. uniflora where both species co-occur as native and invasive (e.g., southern USA). The results indicate a mutualistic interaction between the Tegu lizard and E. uniflora in their native range, which should be considered by initiatives to monitor and control the invasion of the lizard and the plant.

Resumo em Inglês:

ABSTRACT Crassula peduncularis (Sm.) Meigen is a critically endangered herbaceous species in Brazil, with an occurrence restricted to the states of Santa Catarina and Rio Grande do Sul. The last recorded collection of the species in Rio Grande do Sul occurred in 2016 in the municipality of Caçapava do Sul. Herein, we record for the first time C. peduncularis in two conservation units in the Southern Brazilian Grasslands. The populations discovered are small, growing in wet areas under sandstone rocky outcrops and halomorphic soils, popularly known as blanqueales. The main threats to the species in these protected areas are habitat loss caused by biological invasion, cattle trampling, and fires. To mitigate these threats, we recommend the encouragement of scientific research and the popularization of knowledge, as well as the adoption of good cattle management practices and the protection of habitats where the species occurs.

Resumo em Inglês:

ABSTRACT A scientific note is presented, commenting on the presence of Aristida achalensis Mez (Poaceae, Aristidoideae) and discussing the most related species within Peru. With the new taxon included the number of Aristida species in Peru increases to 21, and the distribution range of A. achalensis expands to South America, initially reported for Argentina, Bolivia, and Brazil. This work includes a key that allows us to differentiate the species with a column between the lemma and the awns occurring in Peru.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract We report the presence of Ceratopteris thalictroides based on a recent collection from northeastern Peru. This aquatic fern is widely distributed in the tropics, however, its presence in Peru remained uncertain and without a voucher until now. This finding increases to four the number of species of the subfamily Parkerioideae, Pteridaceae within Peru.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract Traditional complementary and alternative therapies are the main targets for pharmaceutical agents. Natural biomolecules from medicinal plants are rich sources of drugs targeting the amelioration or prevention of different diseases with low adverse effects. Saudi Arabia's normal flora is traditionally used as an anti-inflammatory, hypoglycemic, hypolipidemic, hypotension, and GIT disturbance. In the current study, we used the GC/MS technique for the identification of the chemical composition of many medicinal herbs as Artemisia monosperma, Mentha longifolia, and Rumex nervosus, using methanol and chloroform extracts. Data obtained showed that terpenoids are the most active compound, identified as eucalyptol, menthol, 1,4-benzenediol, cyclobuta (1,2:3,4) dicyclopentene, eicosane, phytol, and heptacosane. The data endorse the conventional application of these plants for treating many diseases. The 1,8-cineole is present in various mouthwash brands, and it has been observed to exhibit anti-plaque and demonstrated antibacterial properties. Eucalyptol also has an anti-inflammatory effect that was assessed by measuring its relative potency compared to prednisolone in individuals suffering from severe asthma. It was concluded that these plant extracts are a promising new source of medications due to the presence of such phytochemicals and bioactive compounds. Further investigation is required to clarify their precise mechanisms of action in different disorders.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract This article delves into the evolving landscape of ethnobiology, mainly focusing on integrating quantitative approaches and the hypothetical-deductive method. We highlight the challenges associated with adopting quantitative tools, such as the potential for oversimplification and lack of critical reflection on the principles guiding these methods. We also examine ecological diversity indices, cultural importance indices, sample sufficiency, replication in studies, and the importance of spatial-temporal context in ethnobiological research. We conclude with practical tips to enhance research's validity, reliability, and generalizability, proposing a path forward for the discipline that respects its essence while adapting to the demands of scientific evolution. While this paper broadly addresses ethnobiology, it primarily focuses on Ethnobotany literature, highlighting the field's rapid advancements and its relevance to other areas within ethnobiology.