New Matisia Tree Species Found in Panama, Colombia

Govind Tekale

After examining herbarium collections, researchers in Panama and Colombia found six new tree species

Photo Source:  Scotted400 (CC BY-SA 4.0)

Matisia petaquillae, Matisia changuinolana, and Matisia aquilarum are among the species found in Panama.

Photo Source: Andreas Kay (CC BY-NC-SA 2.0)

Three species were found in Colombia: Matisia rufula, Matisia mutatana, and Matisia genesiana.

Photo Source: delirium florens (CC BY-NC-SA 2.0)

Although the study made use of online resources and digital photography, its accuracy was dependent on professional taxonomists

Photo Source: STC Herbarium (CC BY-SA 4.0)

A 50-year-old reference for Matisia species in Panama has been replaced with a new dichotomous key.

Photo Source: amy_buthod (CC BY-NC-SA 2.0)

The harpy eagle nest in Chagres National Park served as the inspiration for the name Matisia aquilarum.

Photo Source: Patty McGann (CC BY-NC 2.0)

More unidentified species in regional herbarium collections are suggested by researchers.

Photo Source: Daderot (CC0 1.0)

Preserving these woodlands guarantees wildlife conservation, biodiversity, and possible therapeutics.

Photo Source: Einhverfr (CC BY 4.0)

The plant collections at STRI support conservation efforts and assist researchers worldwide in identifying plants.

Photo Source: François MEY, (CC BY 3.0)