Harpalyce riparia (Leguminosae, Papilionoideae), a New Species from the Campos Rupestres of the Chapada Diamantina in Bahia, Brazil

Abstract

Abstract Harpalyce riparia is described as a new species from the campo rupestre (rocky outcrops) vegetation of the Chapada Diamantina, state of Bahia, northeastern Brazil. The new species is morphologically similar to H. brasiliana and H. parvifolia, but it differs from the former mainly by the shorter 2–3 cm long inflorescence, smaller 1.2–1.5 cm long flowers, and fewer-seeded fruits (6–10 seeds), and from the latter by the chartaceous texture of the much larger 1.5-4.5 × 0.7-1.5 cm leaflets and non-overlapping geographical distribution. In addition to providing a complete description, illustration, and distribution map for the new species, we also provide an identification key to all known species of Harpalyce sect. Brasilianae.