A synopsis of the genus Drosera (Droseraceae) in Brazil

Abstract

A synopsis of the Drosera (Droseraceae) species occurring in Brazil is here presented, providing tools for taxonomic identification and summarizing data as a basis for future studies on diversity and conservation of the genus in the country. Thirty-three taxa, comprising 32 species and a nothotaxon, are recognized for the Brazilian territory. We present an identification key, and, for each taxon, we provide a succint description, a differential diagnosis, notes on distribution, habitat, phenology, conservation status, and a list of representative specimens. Drosera hirtella var. lutescens is lectotypified and raised to species status, lectotypes are further designated for other 18 names, and a neotype is designated for D. intermedia var. tenuis. Drosera species are recorded from all Brazilian states, Minas Gerais being the richest with a total of 21 species. The campos rupestres of eastern Brazil are recognized as the main center of Drosera species diversity in the Neotropics, with 23 species, 13 of which are endemic. Twelve out of the 32 recognized species are considered threatened with extinction (37.5%), reinforcing the Brazilian responsibility for the conservation of global Droseraceae diversity.