A new Peruvian highland Lepanthes (Orchidaceae)
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.15517/mxvxym15Keywords:
conservation assessment, rupicolous orchids, microendemism, Piura mountain range, taxonomyAbstract
Lepanthes phuyupitika, a new lithophytic species from the high-elevation ecosystems of northern Peru, is described and illustrated. It grows on rocky substrates in the páramo and upper montane cloud forests between 3400 and 3900 m elevation. The new species is most similar to the Venezuelan L. unitrinervis but differs by its larger ovate-lanceolate dorsal sepal, larger petals, a labellum with narrowly obovate blades and a suborbicular body, a minute deltoid ciliate appendix, and a longer column. We calculated spatial metrics associated with the species’ range following Criterion B of the Red List of Threatened Species, as well as range contraction due to historical fires. The species is known from only two localities, with approximately twenty-five mature individuals, and is assessed as Endangered because of its restricted distribution and ongoing habitat degradation from recurrent burning and livestock grazing.
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