Gustavia beidae (Lecythidaceae): a new species from the Amazon Forest

Abstract

Summary A new species of Lecythidaceae , Gustavia beidae , from the Amazonian ecosystems of Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru, is formally described. This species is presented with detailed illustrations, its morphological affinities with other taxa are discussed and an identification key to Gustavia section Hexapetala is provided. Gustavia beidae exhibits morphological features typical of section Hexapetala . These characteristics include the presence of a winged hypanthium and calyx lobes with abaxial thickening that forms an inverted Y structure. The species is distinguished by its semi-amplexicaul, decurrent bracteoles, which originate at the base of the pedicel and extend to the hypanthium and fruit, often tending to fuse or appear fused. The ovary has 8 – 10 prominent wings, encompassing 8 – 10 locules, each containing 2 – 3 seeds, while the calyx consists of 8 – 10 distinct lobes.

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