Two new species of Microlicia (Melastomataceae) from unprotected campo rupestre in the western Chapada Diamantina, Bahia, Brazil

Abstract

<i>Microlicia</i> D.Don (Melastomataceae, Lavoisiereae) is a genus of shrubs and subshrubs comprising nearly 300 species, primarily distributed across nutrient-poor, open habitats in Brazil's campos rupestres, cerrado, and other montane ecosystems. During botanical surveys in previously unexplored campo rupestre areas in the municipality of Ibitiara (Bahia, Brazil), we discovered two undescribed species, herein named <i>Microlicia integra</i> and <i>Microlicia flavistyla</i>. The campo rupestre of Ibitiara is located at the westernmost limits of the Chapada Diamantina, a region known for its scenic landscapes and high levels of plant endemism. We provide formal descriptions, illustrations, photographs of living specimens, distribution maps, and notes on their taxonomy and conservation status. Our findings highlight the rich yet still insufficiently known floristic diversity of the unprotected campo rupestre areas of western Chapada Diamantina and underscore the urgent need for conservation measures in these fragile ecosystems.