Abstract
A synopsis for the genus Commelina in the state of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, is presented here, including a new species, ten new synonyms, five designated lectotypes, two designated epitypes and an excluded name. Commelina huntii, a new species, is remarkable due to the combination of rusty to rusty-brown hairs at the margin of its leaf-sheaths, connate spathes, white flowers with auriculate medial petal, ovaries with sparse black papillae and dehiscent fruits. Additionally, we provide an identification key, illustrations, and conservation status for the species of Commelina recorded in the state of Rio de Janeiro.
Highlights
Commelina L. is the largest genus of Commelinaceae, comprising between ca. 170 species (Faden 1998) and 205–215 species (Govaerts and Faden 2009; The Plant List 2013, respectively)
As a first attempt to clarify the taxonomy of Commelina in the state of Rio de Janeiro, we describe a new species of Commelina, together with a synopsis for the genus in the state
Our work has reaffirmed the importance of thorough descriptions, fieldwork, photographs, spirit collections, and cultivation of specimens to better understand the taxonomy and systematics of intricate genera such as Commelina
Summary
Commelina L. is the largest genus of Commelinaceae, comprising between ca. 170 species (Faden 1998) and 205–215 species (Govaerts and Faden 2009; The Plant List 2013, respectively). 170 species (Faden 1998) and 205–215 species (Govaerts and Faden 2009; The Plant List 2013, respectively). It is one of the six genera of Commelinaceae (out of 42) to have a cosmopolitan distribution (Faden 1998), and one of the most complicated taxonomically.
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