Work

Pilea terrazasiae (Urticaceae), a new species, supported by morpho-spatial analyses, endemic to Mexico

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Summary During a revision of herbarium collections, previously unrecognised specimens of Pilea from Guerrero and Oaxaca, Mexico were identified. These specimens exhibit characteristics similar to Pilea vulcanica and P. dauciodora — a species complex present in northern Mesoamerica. Through a multivariate analysis incorporating morphological, geographical and bioclimatic data, they were recognised as a distinct new taxon. It is characterised by a fully crenate leaf margin, strongly cordate leaves with overlapping basal lobes and tuberous roots. This discovery highlights the importance of integrative taxonomic approaches in clarifying species boundaries and uncovering hidden diversity within complex assemblages.

Source: Kew Bulletin

DOI: 10.1007/s12225-025-10357-x

Authors: Daira Paola Altamirano-Romero, Alexandre K. Monro, Guadalupe Amancio, Leopoldo Hurtado-Reveles, Andrés Ernesto Ortiz-Rodriguez

Institutions: Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew

Language: English

Topic: Plant and Fungal Species Descriptions

Subfield: Molecular Biology

Field: Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology

Domain: Life Sciences

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,190

OpenAlex ID: W7171556808