Flora of Malvaceae Juss. In Rio Grande do Norte
Scientometrics, Biodiversity conservation, Floristics, Northeastern Brazil, Taxonomy.
Malvaceae sensu lato is a botanical family that occurs predominantly in the tropics and includes 243 genera and 4,300 species. The family can be identified morphologically by a combination of characters such as stellate or lepidote trichomes, palmate-veined leaves, inflorescences organized in modified cymose units, androecium with numerous stamens sometimes joined at the base, and capsule, schizocarp, or berry fruits. Currently subdivided into ten subfamilies, Malvaceae comprises species of cultural and economic importance, known as cotton (Gossypium L.), cocoa (Theobroma L.), Adansonia L. (baobab), and hibiscus (Hibiscus L.), and represents a significant portion of biodiversity in tropical regions, including Brazil, where it is one of the botanical families with the greatest taxonomic richness, with 912 species in 85 genera. However, the number of species is still underestimated in many regions of Brazil, as was the case in Rio Grande do Norte. In this context, this dissertation fills this gap by developing two complementary themes: (1) a scientometric analysis of scientific production on Malvaceae worldwide, focusing on geographical gaps in study, patterns of collaboration, and their periodicity; (2) a floristic study of Malvaceae in the state of Rio Grande do Norte based on analysis of herbarium collections as well as fieldwork. Sixty nine species of Malvaceae were identified in Rio Grande do Norte, a much greater species richness than previously known, for which morphological descriptions and maps of geographical distribution in the state are presented. In addition, the data were used to discuss the impact of taxonomists' contributions on local floristic knowledge. The data collected contribute to the advancement of knowledge on the taxonomy of Malvaceae, providing support for conservation actions, as well as for the strengthening of botanical science in the region.