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Amazonia is extremely biodiverse, but the mechanisms for the origin of this diversity are still under debate. We propose a diversification model for Amazonia based on the interplay of intrinsic clade functional traits, habitat associations and past geological events, using as a model group the species-rich Neotropical family Marantaceae. Our results show that the species richness of the lineage is predicted by functional strategy, rather than clade age, and thus the fast vs. slow growth functional trade-off is a major determinant of clade diversification in Marantaceae. Rapidly growing clades were mostly associated with highly productive habitats, and their origin and diversification dynamics matched the expansion of fertile soils mediated by Andean uplift c. 23 Mya. Fast-growth strategies probably led to fast molecular evolution, speeding up speciation rates and species accumulation, resulting in higher numbers of extant species. Our results indicate that pure allopatric-dispersal models disconnected from past geological and ecological forces may be inadequate for explaining the evolutionary and diversity patterns in Amazonian lowlands. We suggest that a coupling of the functional trait-niche framework with diversification dynamics provides insights into the evolutionary history of tropical forests and helps elucidate the mechanisms underlying the origin and evolution of its spectacular biodiversity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lateral organs arranged in spiral phyllotaxy are separated by the golden angle, 137.5, leading to chirality: either clockwise or counter-clockwise. In some species, leaves are asymmetric such that they are smaller and curved towards the side ascending the phyllotactic spiral. As such, these asymmetries lead to mirroring of leaf shapes in plants of opposite phyllotactic handedness. Previous reports had suggested that the pin-stripe calathea (Goeppertia ornata) may be exclusively of one phyllotactic direction, counter-clockwise, but had limited sampling to a single population. Here, we use a citizen science approach leveraging a social media poll, internet image searches, in-person verification at nurseries in four countries and digitallycurated, research-grade observations to demonstrate that calatheas (Goeppertia spp.) around the world are biased towards counter-clockwise phyllotaxy. The possibility that this bias is genetic and its implications formodels of phyllotaxy that assume handedness is stochastically specified in equal proportions is discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Changes in chromosome number and structure, as well as alterations in genome size, are important cytological characters that often reflect speciation events. Due to a wide variety of previously reported chromosome numbers the species-rich arrowroot family (Marantaceae) is an ideal system to investigate the role of chromosomal changes in species diversification, especially of dysploidy and polyploidy. The mechanisms and direction of changes during evolution as well as ancestral states of chromosomal characters are largely unknown. This study provides a detailed survey of chromosomal and genome size variation in 43 Marantaceae accessions (37 species, 16 genera) from the whole distribution range. Phylogenetic tree mapping suggests that x = 13 is the ancestral basic chromosome number. Descending dysploidy to x = 9, 10, 11, and 12 occurred ten times in parallel within each of the five main clades. In contrast, ascending dysploidy to x = 14, occurred only once. Ploidy level variation was confined to basic numbers x = 9, 11, and 13 and was observed in four out of the five clades. The occurrence of triploids and pentaploids points towards heteroploid diploid-tetraploid and tetraploid-hexaploid hybridizations. Trends in genome evolution as exposed by regression analyses revealed a massive genome size increase after dysploidy - and a genome size decrease after polyploidy. A schematic illustration of possible origins and the modes of chromosomal changes in a biogeographical context is presented. Exemplified by the family Marantaceae, it is shown how variable chromosomal evolution can be and how it contributes to species richness and speciation in the plant kingdom.

Broad-leaved monocot herbs are widespread and dominant components of the shaded understories of wet neotropical forests. These understory habitats are characterized by light limitation and a constant threat of falling branches. Many shaded understory herb species have close relatives that occupy forest edges and gaps, where light availability is higher and defoliation threat is lower, creating an opportunity for comparative analysis of functional traits in order to better understand the evolutionary adaptations associated with this habitat transition. We documented ecological, morphological and ecophysiological traits of multiple herb species in six monocot families from each of these two habitats in the wet tropical rainforest at the La Selva Biological Station, Costa Rica. We found that a mixture of phylogenetic canalization and ecological selection for specific habitats helped explain patterns of functional traits. Understory herbs were significantly shorter and had smaller leaves than forest edge species. Although the mean number of leaves per plant and specific leaf area did not differ between the two groups, the larger leaf size of forest edge species gave them more than three times the mean plant leaf area. Measures of leaf water content and nitrogen content varied within both groups and mean values were not significantly different. Despite the high leaf nitrogen contents, the maximum photosynthetic rates of understory herbs were quite low. Measures of δ13C as an analog of water use efficiency found significantly lower (more negative) values in understory herbs compared to forest edge species. Clonality was strongly developed in several species but did not show strong phylogenetic patterns. This study highlights many functional traits that differ between broad-leaved monocot species characteristic of understory and forest edge habitats, as well as traits that vary primarily by phylogenetic relatedness. Overall, plant functional traits do not provide a simple explanation for the relative differences in abundance for individual understory and forest edge species with some occurring in great abundance while others are relatively rare.

Thaumatococcus daniellii is a rhizomatous monocotyledonous, perennial herb species of the Marantaceae family. The fruit aril contains thaumatin, a sweet protein with sweetness intensity that is about 1,600–3,000 times that of sucrose and is extensively employed as a natural sweetener. The species has potential as an imperative economic crop if cultivated under proper agronomic practices. Phenological development and thermal time requirements are critical to ensuring a high yield. The aim of this study was to determine the phenological stages according to the BBCH scale and growing degree days (GDDs) under different irradiance and fertiliser levels. Seedlings were raised from rhizomes and grown on the field using a randomised complete block design with four treatments and three replications. The study was carried out at the Botanical Garden, Shah Alam, Malaysia, from July 2014 to February 2017. The treatments consisted of combinations of two irradiance and two fertiliser levels, which were designated as high irradiance with either low (T1) or high fertiliser (T2) and low irradiance with either low (T3) or high fertiliser (T4). A detailed phenological development using two‐ and three‐digit coding systems was conducted on 12 clumps (one clump/replicate/treatment). The species has eight principal stages, which include bud and leaf development, formation of side tillering, petiole elongation, emergence of synflorescence, flowering, fruit development and fruit maturity. Both irradiance and fertiliser levels affected certain phenological stages; with leaf, tiller, synflorescence and fruit strongly influenced by irradiance levels. Leaf growth was more vigorous under high irradiances compared with low irradiances and took about 36 to 42 days to attain full maturity. The clump growth or size is a function of tiller numbers. The tiller number increased with increase in clump age. The onset of certain phenological stages was associated with clump age. The clumps commenced production of synflorescence when tiller number was in the range of 30 to 40, and started fruit formation when tiller number reached 70. Both events occurred under a combination treatment of high irradiance with high fertiliser. The GDD requirement of any phenological stage or development of any plant part is contingent upon the duration of a particular stage or process, as measured in days after emergence or transplanting. The longer the duration, the higher the GDD and it varies with treatments. The total GDD required for the completion of the single leaf growth ranged from 852 to 1,022°C, while the emergence of synflorescence under high irradiance occurred with GDD of 5621 (T2) and low irradiance at 9387°C (T3). Fruit formation was observed only under high irradiance with GDD ranging from 9030 (T2) to 13,147°C (T1) during the study period. A description of phenological development according to BBCH scale and GDD requirements in response to differences in irradiance and fertiliser is imperative. It provides a detailed knowledge based on T. daniellii development vis‐à‐vis growth and environmental requirements. This will pave the way for attainment of an efficient crop agronomic practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Brachybasidiaceae are a family of 22 known species of plant-parasitic microfungi belonging to Exobasidiales, Basidiomycota. Within this family, species of the largest genus Kordyana develop balls of basidia on top of stomatal openings. Basidial cells originate from fungal stroma filling substomatal chambers. Species of Kordyana typically infect species of Commelinaceae. During fieldwork in the neotropics, fungi morphologically similar to Kordyana spp. were found on Goeppertia spp. (syn. Calathea spp., Marantaceae), namely on G. panamensis in Panama and on G. propinqua in Bolivia. These specimens are proposed as representatives of a genus new to science, Marantokordyana, based on the distinct host family and molecular sequence data of ITS and LSU rDNA regions. The specimens on the two host species represent two species new to science, M. oberwinkleriana on G. panamensis and M. boliviana on G. propinqua. They differ by the size and shape of their basidia, molecular sequence data of ITS and LSU rDNA regions, and host plant species. In the past, the understanding of Brachybasidiaceae at order and family level was significantly improved by investigation realized by Franz Oberwinkler and his collaborators at the University of Tübingen, Germany. On species level, however, our knowledge is still very poor due to incomplete species descriptions of several existing names in literature, scarceness of specimens, as well as sequence data lacking for many taxa and for further barcode regions. Especially species of Kordyana and species of Dicellomyces are in need of revision. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Karyotype analyses in species of the family Marantaceae (550 species, 31 genera) were conducted to shed light on the reported strong variation of chromosome number and size and the occurrence of polyploidy. Special attention was paid to the alterations in basic chromosome numbers, karyotypes and ploidy levels. Taxon sampling covered the whole distribution area of Marantaceae in Africa, Asia and America. We applied mitotic chromosome counting using conventional rapid squash techniques in 43 accessions (39 species, 16 genera), evaluated literature records for 51 species and conducted karyotype analyses. Eleven different somatic chromosome numbers were found (2n = 20, 22, 24, 26, 28, 33, 44, 36, 52, 65, 72). Based on the presumed basic chromosome numbers of x = 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, this may correspond to diploid, triploid, tetraploid, pentaploid and octoploid levels, respectively. Dysploid variation, polyploidy and, to a lesser extend, hybridization may be the main factors in chromosome number evolution of the family. Our results also point to a certain degree of association with species diversification and geographical patterns. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study aimed to characterise and establish the phenological stages of arrowroot (Maranta arundinacea L.) by employing the extended BBCH (Biologische Bundesanstalt Bundessortenamt und Chemische Industrie) scale system and reporting a detailed biometric evaluation. An experiment with individual plants grown in separate pots was set up in a greenhouse for the identification and characterisation of phenological stages (the phenotypic characterisation and tuberisation process was accompanied by histological analyses every 2 months) and for biometric evaluation (plant height, root volume, dry biomass, leaf area and accumulated starch). We identified 36 secondary stages within eight principal stages of arrowroot growth which comprise: (0) sprouting; (1) leaf development–main stem; (2) formation of lateral stems; (3) elongation–main stem; (4) rhizome formation and tuberisation; (5) inflorescence emergence; (6) flowering, and (9) senescence. Results were categorised and recorded by way of photographs and technical drawings. The total growth cycle in this experiment was 230 days, concluding at the point of harvest. It was possible to observe the phenological events that characterised the changes at each stage (colouration, flag leaf emission, inflorescence and the rhizome tuberisation process). The BBCH system was efficient in identifying arrowroot phenological data. It constitutes a tool for agricultural calendar delineation and contributes to the standardisation of research on the species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to identify the histological basis for the extraordinary, fast movement of the style in Marantaceae. Although this explosive pollination mechanism was subject of many studies, quantitative measurements to document volumetric changes have never been conducted. Based on physical parameters and limitations (poroelastic time), the movement itself is by far too fast to be explained by turgor changes solely. Therefore, we address the hypothesis that the style contains elastic structures to store energy allowing the fast movement. We provide an experimental approach in Goeppertia bachemiana to identify histological differences of styles in various states, i.e., steady, unreleased, and released state. Cross and longitudinal sections were used to reconstruct the cell volume in different sectors of the style. Histological data were discussed with respect to a putative water shift (turgor movement) and elastic instabilities that were proposed to explain the style movement of Marantaceae. Current data show, that the upper epidermis is under tensile stress in the unreleased state. After style release, the lower side of the style revealed an enormous water up-take. According to our results, we hypothesize that the fast style movement of G. bachemiana is likely based on an elastically stretched upper epidermis, whereas a “soaking tissue” at the lower side presumably mediates the up curling of the style. The experimental data show that at least for G. bachemiana, physical limitations such as the poroelastic time are suitable parameters to predict movements that are based on elastic instabilities.

This study aims to identify the histological basis for the extraordinary, fast movement of the style in Marantaceae. Although this explosive pollination mechanism was subject of many studies, quantitative measurements to document volumetric changes have never been conducted. Based on physical parameters and limitations (poroelastic time), the movement itself is by far too fast to be explained by turgor changes solely. Therefore, we address the hypothesis that the style contains elastic structures to store energy allowing the fast movement. We provide an experimental approach in Goeppertia bachemiana to identify histological differences of styles in various states, i.e., steady, unreleased, and released state. Cross and longitudinal sections were used to reconstruct the cell volume in different sectors of the style. Histological data were discussed with respect to a putative water shift (turgor movement) and elastic instabilities that were proposed to explain the style movement of Marantaceae. Current data show, that the upper epidermis is under tensile stress in the unreleased state. After style release, the lower side of the style revealed an enormous water up-take. According to our results, we hypothesize that the fast style movement of G. bachemiana is likely based on an elastically stretched upper epidermis, whereas a "soaking tissue" at the lower side presumably mediates the up curling of the style. The experimental data show that at least for G. bachemiana , physical limitations such as the poroelastic time are suitable parameters to predict movements that are based on elastic instabilities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we quantified the contribution of forest-derived carbon (FDC) to the soil organic C (SOC) pool along a natural succession from savanna (S) to mixed Marantaceae forest (MMF) in the Lopè National Park, Gabon. Four 1-ha plots, corresponding to different stages along the natural succession, were used to determine the SOC stock and soil C isotope composition (δ13C) to derive the FDC contribution in different soil layers down to 1 m depth. Besides, to investigate changes in SOC stability, we determined the 14C concentration of SOC to 30 cm depth and derived turnover time (TT). Results indicated that SOC increased only at the end of the succession in the MMF stage, which stored 46% more SOC (41 Mg C ha−1) in the 0-30 cm depth than the S stage (28.8 Mg C ha−1). The FDC contribution increased along forest succession affecting mainly the top layers of the initial successional stages to 15 cm depth and reaching 70 cm depth in the MMF stage. The TT suggests a small increase in stability in the 0-5 cm layer from S (146 years) to MMF (157 years) stages. Below 5 cm, the increase in stability was high, suggesting that FDC can remain in soils for a much longer time than savanna-derived C. In conclusion, the natural succession toward Marantaceae forests can positively impact climate change resulting in large SOC stocks, which can be removed from the atmosphere and stored for a much longer time in forest soils compared to savanna soils. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The early stages of the hesperiid butterfly Lychnuchoides ozias ozias (Hewitson) are described. The food plant in nature is an unidentified species of Marantaceae (cf. Calathea G. F. W. Meyer). The egg is hemispheric, white, with about 50 vertical ribs. The larva is smooth and goes through five instars during 30 days. The last instar has a plump body, is completely smooth and dark green with a pair of dorsal light markings on T6, the head is dark brown, trapezoidal, with a pair of rounded bumps on the vertex with two pairs of yellow spots (one frontal and one on the bumps on the vertex). The pupa is elongated, without spines, bearing a long, thin, anteriorly-directed projection on the head. The immature stages are similar to those of most Calpodini except for the general body shape, which is similar to Talides Hübner and Saliana Evans and distinct from all other Calpodini genera, whose larvae are elongated and slim. The body shape in Calpodini appears to be associated with host plant use, with plump bodies related to the use of plants with large soft leaves and slender bodies related to the use of plants with narrow and tough leaves or leaflets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plants evolved in response to climatic conditions, which shaped their geographic distribution, functional traits and genetic composition. In the face of climatic changes, plants have to react by either genetic adaptation, phenotypic plasticity or geographic range shift. Their reaction potential depends on their phenotypic and genetic variability which can be evaluated through regional scale trait estimates, however, little is known here about tropical African plants. To start filling this gap of knowledge, the aim of this study was to estimate the phenotypic variability in a widespread perennial herb from the understorey of tropical African rainforests: Sarcophrynium prionogonium (Marantaceae). We surveyed 211 individuals from eight populations distributed across four sites in Cameroon covering largely the climatic range of the study species. Fourteen key functional traits were measured monthly for 18 months (2013–2014). Individuals of the study species persisted under a wide range of environmental conditions and there was considerable intraspecific variability within and across populations. Still, plant vegetative growth decreased with dryness. Productivity was positively related to a combination of high temperatures and precipitation and under these favourable conditions strongly shaped by light. Seasonal patterns of flower and fruit development were strongly associated with seasonal rainfall. Thus, the predicted increased dryness in tropical Africa might be disadvantageous for the study species. In the past, plants reacted to such aridification tendencies (e.g. during the Pleistocene glacial cycles) by retracting to moist refugia. The current climatic changes, however, being much faster and larger might provide new challenges. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Calathea gentryi H. Kenn., and C. yawankama H. Kenn., both endemic to Amazonian Peru, are described as new. Calathea gentryi occurs in Department Loreto in both Maynas and Alto Amazonas Provinces. Calathea gentryi is characterized by all basal leaves, a single, relatively small (4.5-7 × 1-2.5 cm) narrowly ellipsoid to subcylindric inflorescence of 12 to 19 spirally arranged small (1.1-1.5 × 0.9-1.2 cm) bracts, and three bracteoles per flower pair, two lateral, membranous, and a medial, claviculate, one. Calathea gentryi shares a similar habit and inflorescence morphology with C. barbata Peters. and C. schunkei H. Kenn. Calathea yawankama, known only from the type locality in Department Amazonas, is characterized by the relatively broad (length: width ratio 1.15-2.23:1), all basal leaves, leaves with the blades patterned with a light green band along the midrib adaxially, purple abaxially, and small (2-2.5 × 2-2.7 cm), globose, inflorescence of 12 to18 spirally arranged bracts, the presence of claviculate bracteoles and white flowers. Calathea yawankama shares a similar inflorescence morphology with C. compacta S. Suárez & Galeano and C. pearcei Rusby. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Coccodiella is a genus of plant-parasitic species in the family Phyllachoraceae (Phyllachorales, Ascomycota), i.e., tropical tar spot fungi. Members of the genus Coccodiella are tropical in distribution and are host-specific, growing on plant species belonging to nine host plant families. Most of the known species occur on various genera and species of the Melastomataceae in tropical America. In this study, we describe the new species C. calatheae from Panama, growing on Calathea crotalifera (Marantaceae). We obtained ITS, nrLSU, and nrSSU sequence data from this new species and from other freshly collected specimens of five species of Coccodiella on members of Melastomataceae from Ecuador and Panama. Phylogenetic analyses allowed us to confirm the placement of Coccodiella within Phyllachoraceae, as well as the monophyly of the genus. The phylogeny of representative species within the family Phyllachoraceae, including Coccodiella spp., graminicolous species of Phyllachora and taxa with erumpent to superficial stroma from several host families, suggests that the genus Phyllachora might be polyphyletic. Furthermore, tar spot fungi with superficial or erumpent perithecia seem to be restricted to the family Phyllachoraceae, independently of the host plant. We also discuss the biodiversity and host-plant patterns of species of Coccodiella worldwide. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Goeppertia mendesiana, a new species from the Atlantic Forest of Bahia, Brazil, is described and illustrated. It resembles G. widgrenii (Körn.) Borchs. & Suárez, but differs from that species by its villose petioles and peduncles (vs glabrous in G. widgrenii) and by the absence of bracteoles and interphylls, a rare feature in the genus. The ecology, distribution and conservation status of the new species is presented, along with a key to the species of Goeppertia with ornamented leaves in the Atlantic Forest of Brazil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Marantha ruiziana Koern (MrK) is an Amazonian plant with starchy rhizome, which can be used as an alternative botanical source for starch isolation. The morphology, crystallinity, short molecular order, pasting and thermal properties of MrK starch were assessed and compared to cassava starch, a rhizome that is also harvested in the Amazonian region. The amylose content of MrK starch was 29.0%, and the granule size diameter was in range from 9.7 to 24.0 μm. Starch granules exhibited polyhedral shapes with irregular polygonal surfaces. X-ray diffraction analysis revealed A-type crystallinity with about 26.1% of crystallinity content. X-ray diffraction and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy evidenced reduced molecular order of MrK starch compared to cassava starch, although the gelatinization and pasting temperatures were higher in MrK starch. Also, MrK starch pastes showed high tendency to retrogradation after seven days of storage at 4.0 °C as assessed by differential scanning calorimetry. Overall, the results showed that MrK starch has interesting characteristics (e.g., high peak viscosity, thermal stability) that can be exploited for applications in food and non-food products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A severe leaf spot, turning to foliage blight, was observed on leaves of Maranta leuconeura growing in a garden in Brazil (state of Rio de Janeiro) in 2015. A dematiaceous hyphomycete bearing a morphology typical of a helminthosporoid fungi was regularly found in association with diseased tissues. The fungus was isolated and pathogenicity was demonstrated through the completion of Koch's postulates. A morphology and molecular analysis led to the conclusion that the fungus belonged to the genus Bipolaris, which is characterized by having fusiform conidia, externally thickened and truncate hila and a bipolar pattern of germination. Additionally, homology of internal transcribed spacer and GAPDH sequences with sequences of other Bipolaris species, confirmed its generic placement. A phylogenetic study also indicated clearly that the fungus on M. leuconeura is phylogenetically distinct from related species of this genus, leading to the proposal of the new species Bipolaris marantae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pleistocene and Holocene lithic assemblages found in Southeast Asia are characterised by simple production techniques and a paucity of formal stone tools. This situation led some scholars to hypothesise that this situation reflected an adaptation of prehistoric human groups to the rainforest and that these simple stone tools had been mainly used to manufacture more complex implements made of bamboo. Microscopic use traces observed on stone tools could support this hypothesis since many result from plant processing. However, it remains unclear whether these traces were produced by working bamboo or other plants, due to the lack of a suitable use-wear reference collection. To be able to clearly discriminate the use-wear resulting from bamboo processing, such a collection needs to encompass use traces resulting not only from bamboo processing but also from working various other plants, which might potentially have been used by prehistoric groups. We present here the results of a three month field work among Pala'wan communities aiming to know what plants from the forests of Palawan, Philippines are used nowadays, are therefore useful to humans in general and might have been used during the past as well. We recorded the use of 95 different plant species belonging to at least 34 different families. Archaeobotanical studies confirm that some of those plants were available and used by humans in the past while others would have been extant at least in forest refugia, even during glacial periods. Those plants are processed by the Pala'wan at all life stages from seed to dead trees and the parts involved are very diverse. While the most frequent type of use that we witnessed was technological in nature (67 plant species), plants are also used for alimentary, medicinal, ornamental, and sanitary purposes, and even for producing poison. The observations presented here can serve as a basis for use-wear analysts to design experiments in relation to plant exploitation by humans during the past, and to enlarge reference collections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Premise of research: Interspecific hybridization is frequently observed between closely related plant species with overlapping distribution ranges, especially in zones of secondary contact after isolation in different refugia. Although well studied in temperate regions, interspecific hybridization is little documented in tropical regions, where it may be frequent in areas with high species diversity. To bridge this gap, we investigate hybridization in two closely related climber species from the genus Haumania (Haumania danckelmaniana and Haumania liebrechtsiana) originating from Gabon/Cameroon and the Democratic Republic of Congo, respectively, and co-occurring in Northern Gabon. The aim of this study was to genetically quantify and qualify the degree of hybridization between these species in their area of distributional overlap by including for the first time morphological intermediates. Methodology: We investigated 265 individuals from nine sites (seven sites containing both species) by genotyping seven microsatellites and sequencing one chloroplastic region (trnC-petN1r). Bayesian clustering analysis and simulated genotypes allowed the assignment of sampled genotypes to one or the other species or their intermediates (first-generation hybrid or backcrosses). Pivotal results: We found 13% and 41% of intermediates on the basis of morphological versus genetic data, respectively, indicating only a partial congruence. There was an equal amount of backcrosses to both parental species (15%). However, a comparison at the local scale of microsatellites and cpDNA sequence data revealed a unidirectional introgression from H. liebrechtsiana into H. danckelmaniana. At the scale of the nine sites, genetic differentiation was much lower among H. liebrechtsiana than among H. danckelmaniana populations. Conclusions: These results are in line with the previously proposed phylogeographic scenario for the genus Haumania and the theoretical expectation of chloroplast capture when an expanding species (here H. liebrechtsiana) invades the range of a local species (here H. danckelmaniana). Because the forest flora of Central Africa has undergone repeated cycles of fragmentation and expansion following past climate changes, we expect that similar scenarios of hybridization after secondary contact may be common. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This taxonomic survey comprises the species of Marantaceae registered for the cangas of Serra dos Carajás, Pará, Brazil. Two species inhabit the cangas: Maranta ruiziana and Monotagma plurispicatum. Morphological descriptions of genera and species, illustrations, and additional remarks are also presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim We sought to test the refuge hypothesis as a major driver of genetic differentiation to explain the development of distinct phytogeographical domains in tropical Central African rain forest. To address this aim, we studied the phylogeographical pattern of a pair of sister plant species, Haumania danckelmaniana and H. liebrechtsiana (Marantaceae), distributed across the two phytogeographical domains: Lower Guinea and Congolia. Location Tropical Central Africa including the phytogeographical domains Lower Guinea and Congolia. Methods Seven polymorphic microsatellite loci were genotyped in a total of 513 individuals from both species. The dataset was analysed for population genetic structure and demographic change and the results compared to the geographical pattern of plastid DNA sequences from a previous publication and other sympatric species. Results Based on the microsatellite dataset, three distinct homogeneous genetic clusters were detected in H. danckelmaniana and two in H. liebrechtsiana. These clusters corresponded geographically with the patterns found in the plastid DNA sequences. Genetic diversity and endemism were unevenly distributed between clusters in the two species. Most clusters exhibited signals of population expansion. Main conclusions The phylogeographical data based on microsatellites and plastid DNA revealed a complex history involving (1) allopatric differentiation with each species originating in a different phytogeographical domain, potentially resulting from past forest fragmentation, followed by (2) population expansion and interspecific introgression, which probably occurred during a phase of forest expansion. Moreover, phylogeographical patterns within each species provided evidence of (3) past population fragmentation followed by partial population admixture in H. danckelmaniana, and deep differentiation between Lower Guinea and Congolia in H. liebrechtsiana. The observed patterns were globally consistent with the refuge hypothesis and the presented scenario illustrates evolutionary processes that likely have contributed to shaping the African phytogeographical domains. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Calathea neurophylla H. Kenn., C. barryi H. Kenn., and C. velutinifolia H. Kenn., endemic to Colombia, are described as new. Calathea neurophylla is characterized by the single cauline leaf subtending one or more inflorescences of spirally arranged bracts and the markedly ridged, narrowly elliptic leaf blades (length 6.25-8.46 times width). Calathea barryi is characterized by the single cauline leaf subtending several inflorescences with 25-43 spirally arranged bracts and the very closely spaced lateral veins (ca. 67 per 3 cm). Calathea velutinifolia is distinguished by the 4-15 basal leaves, the densely appressed velvety tomentose adaxial leaf surface and the 8-10 distichous, white bracts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study quantifies changes in soil organic carbon (SOC) stock as a result of woody encroachment on savannas. Changes in SOC stocks occur below 30 cm depth, indicating the subsoil as the principal compartment contributing to SOC sequestration, and suggesting the need to consider the entire profile (0-100 cm) to thoroughly assess the effect of woody encroachment on SOC stocks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

El sagú Maranta arundinacea es una Marantaceae cuyo rizoma es utilizado en algunas zonas de Colombia para la elaboración de productos destinados a la alimentación humana. No obstante, el conocimiento agronómico de este cultivo es limitado. En este trabajo se estudiaron varios métodos de propagación, días a cosecha de rizomas, producción de almidón nativo y el análisis químico de esta planta en las condiciones del Valle del Cauca. El cultivo fue establecido en parcelas de 0.25 m x 1 m entre plantas dentro de surco y entre surcos, respectivamente. Para el análisis de los datos cuantitativos se utilizaron estadísticas descriptivas (medidas de tendencia central, de variación y de desviación). La planta adulta alcanzó una altura entre 50 y 75 cm y un rendimiento de rizoma fresco entre 1.46 y 1.94 kg/planta. El índice de cosecha varió entre 0.06 y 0.60; el rendimiento de almidón por el rizoma fresco varió entre 7.2% y 8.1%; la composición proximal (en %) del rizoma fue: 22.3, 7.4, 3.62, 1.02, 6.98 y 80.9 para MS, PC, FC, EE, ceniza y ELN, respectivamente. Las pruebas de antimetabolitos mostraron ausencia de estos compuestos en el forraje fresco, con 41.3; 22.0; 22.5; 15.06; 57.13; 32.3; 9.2; 23.13 y 24.8% de MS, PC, FC, ceniza, FDN, FDA, lignina, celulosa y hemicelulosa, respectivamente. El valor relativo como forraje fue de 103.7. Se realizó el análisis granulométrico: el módulo de fineza, módulo de uniformidad y el tamaño de la partícula. El rendimiento de almidón de rizomas fue de 10.57 ± 1.35%, el gasto de agua de 50.45 l/kg de almidón rendido. El gránulo fue elipsoidal de 8 µm de diámetro y compuesto por 20.54% de amilosa y 79.46% de amilopectina, que genera una pasta opaca y resistente a la retrogradación. La temperatura final de gelificación fue de 73 °C, la viscosidad máxima de la pasta fue de 220 Unidades Brabender (U.B.), con un pico de viscosidad definido, y posterior conservación de la trayectoria, con estabilidad en el tiempo. Los índices de solubilidad y absorción de agua fueron de 1.23 y 2.8%, respectivamente.

The genus Schumannianthus Gagnep. (Marantaceae) is typified by S. dichotomus Gagnep. This is a new genus and species for the material of Phrynium dichotomum auct. non Roxb. Phrynium dichotomum Roxb. and derivatives are superfluous names for Donax canniformis (G. Forst.) K. Schum. The correct name for S. dichotomus is Schumannianthus benthamianus (Kuntze) Veldkamp & I. M. Turner comb. nov. Lectotypes are designated for Arundastrum benthamianum Kuntze and Schumannianthus dichotomus Gagnep., and a second-step lectotypification is proposed for Thalia canniformis G. Forst. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objectives of the study were to classify, describe and map the forest communities in the study area and to investigate possible gradients in plant diversity. The study area comprised approximately 166 000 ha in the Kouilou Département, Republic of Congo, a section of land targeted for extensive future development. In total 156 forest sample sites were surveyed using the Braun-Blanquet method of phytosociology. Diversity of each plant community was expressed in terms of species richness; Shannon-Wiener index; exponent of Shannon-Wiener index; evenness; Fisher's alpha; Simpson's index; and inverse Simpson index. Eleven plant communities were described and mapped at a much finer scale than has been done previously. The communities were arranged along two gradients: a degraded - relatively intact gradient and a wet - dry gradient. The least degraded communities, and consequently those with the highest conservation value, were the swamp forests and the okoumé forest. Overall, the values reported for the diversity parameters in the current study were within the range reported for other tropical forests in Central Africa. The study revealed a gradient between the coast (west) and the Mayombe mountain range (east) in plant diversity linked to topography and climate with plant diversity lowest at the coast. Furthermore, plant diversity was negatively related to the distance to human infrastructure. The forest communities appear to be fairly resilient to past anthropogenic disturbances, however, there is no historical analogue to the more severe types of forest destruction associated with some of the future developments anticipated, such as mechanized logging or mining. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to determine the feasibility of using magnesium-alginate/chitosan modified biochar microspheres to enhance removal of phosphate from aqueous solution. The introduction of MgCl 2 substantially increased surface area of biochar (116.2 m 2 g −1 ), and both granulation with alginate/chitosan and modification with magnesium improved phosphate sorption on the biochars. Phosphate sorption on the biochars could be well described by a simple Langmuir model, and the MgCl 2 -alginate modified biochar microspheres exhibited the highest phosphate sorption capacity (up to 46.56 mg g −1 ). The pseudo second order kinetic model better fitted the kinetic data, and both the Yoon-Nelson and Thomas models were superior to other models in describing phosphate dynamic sorption. Precipitation with minerals and ligand exchange were the possible mechanisms of phosphate sorption on the modified biochars. These results imply that MgCl 2 -alginate modified biochar microspheres have potential as a green cost-effective sorbent for remediating P contaminated water environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gene dispersal and clonality are important aspects of plant evolution affecting the spatial genetic structure (SGS) and the long-term survival of species. In the tropics these parameters have mostly been investigated in trees and some herbs, but rarely in climbers which frequently: (1) show clonal growth leading to a patchy distribution pattern similar to that of understory herbs; and (2) flower in the canopy where they may have access to long-distance dispersal like canopy trees. We thus hypothesize for climbers an intermediate genetic structure between herbs and trees. The study aims at assessing breeding system and spatial extent of clonality and gene dispersal in Haumania danckelmaniana (Marantaceae), a common climber in the tropical rain forests from western Central Africa. In eastern Cameroon, 330 ramets were sampled at three spatial scales and genotyped at seven microsatellite loci. Clonality was moderate (clonal extend: 15-25 m, clonal diversity 0.4-0.65) indicating the importance of recruitment from seeds at this locality. The low inbreeding ( FIS) suggested predominant outcrossing. The rate of decay of the relatedness between individuals with distance indicated limited gene dispersal distance ( σg = 9-50 m, neighborhood sizes Nb = 23-67) in accordance with narrowly gravity dispersed seeds and restricted pollen transfer distance in densely flowering populations. The marked SGS ( Sp = 0.011-0.026) was similar to that reported in tropical trees, but might increase with augmented clonality as in many herbs, especially under more severe disturbance regimes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recent studies show widespread encroachment of forest into savannas with important consequences for the global carbon cycle and land-atmosphere interactions. However, little research has focused on in situ measurements of the successional sequence of savanna to forest in Africa. Using long-term inventory plots we quantify changes in vegetation structure, above-ground biomass (AGB) and biodiversity of trees ≥10 cm diameter over 20 years for five vegetation types: savanna; colonising forest (F1), monodominant Okoume forest (F2); young Marantaceae forest (F3); and mixed Marantaceae forest (F4) in Lopé National Park, central Gabon, plus novel 3D terrestrial laser scanning (TLS) measurements to assess forest structure differences. Over 20 years no plot changed to a new stage in the putative succession, but F1 forests strongly moved towards the structure, AGB and diversity of F2 forests. Overall, savanna plots showed no detectable change in structure, AGB or diversity using this method, with zero trees ≥10 cm diameter in 1993 and 2013. F1 and F2 forests increased in AGB, mainly as a result of adding recruited stems (F1) and increased Basal Area (F2), whereas F3 and F4 forests did not change substantially in structure, AGB or diversity. Critically, the stability of the F3 stage implies that this stage may be maintained for long periods. Soil carbon was low, and did not show a successional gradient as for AGB and diversity. TLS vertical plant profiles showed distinctive differences amongst the vegetation types, indicating that this technique can improve ecological understanding. We highlight two points: (i) as forest colonises, changes in biodiversity are much slower than changes in forest structure or AGB; and (ii) all forest types store substantial quantities of carbon. Multi-decadal monitoring is likely to be required to assess the speed of transition between vegetation types. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Resupination, i.e., the turn by 180°, arranges zygomorphic flowers in a suitable position for pollination. It is well-known from orchids, but also occurs in further angiosperm families. Within the genus Thalia L. (Marantaceae), T. dealbata has erect and T. geniculata pendulous inflorescences. Nevertheless, in both species the zygomorphic flower-pairs show the right position for pollination. Thus, resupination is expected in Marantaceae. To reconstruct spatial arrangement, flower development was investigated from meristem formation to anthesis. Early morphogenetic stages were analysed under the scanning electron microscope, late stages were documented by time-lapse records. Gravity experiments were added to test for plastic or genetically fixed flower-pair position. Flowers in both Thalia species develop almost identically. They originate from a common primordium and show the unusual floral organ sequence already described for the family. In T. dealbata , the flower-pair gets its final position by bending 90° backwards, while in T. geniculata a lateral rotation of 90° takes place shortly before anthesis. In both species, position is genetically fixed. Results clearly indicate that the flower-pairs in Thalia do not show resupination according to the given definition. Instead of the expected 180° turn in one species, flower-pairs in both species each dislocate for 90°. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article focuses on description of feeding behaviour in bonobos or Pan paniscus associated with the Forest-Savanna Habitat of Bolobo in Democratic Republic of Congo. It states observation of terrestrial herbaceous vegetation (THV) as major part of the Pan's diet along with arboreal ripe fruits. It mentions consumption of different plants related to several plant species such as Marantaceae. It reports on consumption of Poaceae species plant stems by Pan for nutrition achievement.

Calathea calderon-saenzii H. Kenn. & M. Serna, endemic to Colombia, is described as new. It is known from the western cordillera of Colombia in the Department of Valle del Cauca and from the eastern cordillera in the departments of Santander and Cundinamarca and occurs in tropical wet to montane cloud forest. It is characterized by the presence of 1-2 cauline and 3-8 basaI leaves per shoot; juvenile, and often cauline, leaves patterned with somewhat rectangular yellow-green blotches on a dark green blade; the single inflorescence per shoot of 10-21, remote, spreading green bracts; the absence of bracteoles; and the white sepals. Calathea calderon-saenzii, like the closely related C. elliptica (Roscoe) K. Schum. and C. bantae H. Kenn., has patterned juvenile foliage and an inflorescence of lax, spreading, spirally arranged green bracts but differs in the juvenile leaf pattern of blotches rather than white or pink lines or longitudinal bands of yellow-green, and the absence vs. presence of bracteoles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Zingiberales is represented in the Brazilian flora by almost 300 species, of which about 100 occur in the Northeast Region of the country. Zingiberales is poorly known in the Atlantic Forest of the state of Pernambuco and this study provides a taxonomic survey of the species found in the forest fragments of Usina São José, Igarassu. The field work was carried out in eight expeditions (from November 2013 to December 2014), as well as visits to herbaria: HST, IPA, PEUFR and UFP. In the studied area were found one species of Costaceae, three of Heliconiaceae and seven of Marantaceae. Heliconia episcopalis and Maranta subterranea are new records to the state. Identification key, descriptions, comments and illustrations are presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two new species of Marantaceae from Amazonian Colombia are described and illustrated: Calathea caquetensis and C. compacta. C. caquetensis is apparently related to C. attenuata and C. silvosa. C. compacta seems to be related to C. ecuminata, C. pearcei and C. schunkei.Se describen e ilustran dos especies nuevas de Marantaceae de la Amazonia colombiana: Calathea caquetensís y C. compacta. C. caquetensis está aparentemente relacionada con C. attenuata y C. silvosa. C compacta parece estar relacionada con C. acuminata, C. pearcei y C. schunkei.

A new flavonoid glucoside ( 1) has been isolated from the aerial parts of Phrynium placentarium (Marantaceae). The structure of 1 was established as 5,2′-dihydroxy-3′,4′-dimethoxyflavone-7-O- β-D-glucopyranoside by means of chemical and spectral data including 2D NMR studies. Compound 1 was examined for antioxidant and PCSK3 (furin) inhibition efficacy because inhibitors of furin are under consideration as therapeutic agents for treating various diseases, including HIV, influenza, dengue fever, etc. Experimental results showed antioxidant activity with EC value of 100 μg/mL and PCSK3 inhibition activity with EC value of 80 μg/mL on spectrophometric assays. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The explosive pollination mechanism of the prayer plants (Marantaceae) is unique among plants. After a tactile stimulus by a pollinator, the style curls up rapidly and mediates pollen exchange. It is still under discussion whether this explosive movement is released electrophysiologically, i.e. by a change in the membrane potential (as in Venus flytrap), or purely mechanically. In the present study, electrophysiological experiments are conducted to clarify the mechanism. Artificial release experiments (chemical and electrical) and electrophysiological measurements were conducted with two phylogenetically distant species, Goeppertia bachemiana (E. Morren) Borchs. & S. Suárez and Donax canniformis (G. Forst.) K. Schum. Electric responses recorded after style release by extracellular measurements are characterised as variation potentials due to their long repolarization phase and lack of self-perpetuation. In both species, chemical and electric stimulations do not release the style movement. It is concluded that the style movement in Marantaceae is released mechanically by relieving the tissue pressure. Accordingly, the variation potential is an effect of the movement and not its cause. The study exemplarily shows that fast movements in plants are not necessarily initiated by electric changes of the membrane as known from the Venus flytrap. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The carbohydrate content of floral nectars of 12 Marantaceae species was analyzed by high-performance thin-layer chromatography (HPTLC). The main interest was not only to determine the sugar content of the nectar produced by the flowers but also to find potential differences within the genera and species. A total of 131 samples of this plant family, which grows in the tropical understory rainforest, were collected in the Golfo Dulce Region, Costa Rica, and analyzed. The nectar sugars found in the neotropical samples comprised melezitose, fructose, sucrose, glucose, and xylose (listed ascending in hRF values), whereof the main sugars were sucrose, glucose, and fructose. The nectars were successfully analyzed with regard to their individual sugar composition and classified according to their ratios. The overall mean sugar content of the studied species was 36%. The highest sugar contents of =40% were found in the nectar of the species Calathea lutea, Calathea donnell-smithii, Calathea marantifolia, Hylaeanthe hoffmannii, and Pleiostachya pruinosa. All species studied showed a ratio of sucrose to glucose and fructose between 1.3 for Calathealutea and 11.2 for Calathea donnell-smithii and, hence, were classified as sucrose dominated. HPTLC was found to be a good analytical method for nectar analysis, which took less than 1.5 h for 21 samples analyzed in parallel (ca. 4 min per sample). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

La familia Marantaceae es reconocida en el Perú por presentar diez géneros y 93 especies (Brako & Zarucchi, 1993; Ulloa Ulloa et al., 2004), todas ellas hierbas. En este trabajo reconocemos ocho endemismos en dos géneros. Se asignó las categorías de amenaza de la UICN a dos especies. Los taxones endémicos se encuentran principalmente en los bosques de la región del Bosque Húmedo Amazónico, entre los 100 y 700 m de altitud. Aparentemente, los taxones endémicos no están representados en algúnárea natural protegida.

The species of Calathea of Marantaceae under Scitaminaceae are economically important as ornamental foliage plants. These are native of South America and distributed throughout the tropics. The plants are tuberous or rhizomatous and propagate mostly by vegetative means. In the present study, an attempt has been made to evaluate the genomic diversity of four different species of Calathea in relation to morphological and cytological characteristics as well as 4C nuclear DNA contents at the inter- and intra-specific levels. Differences were observed in morphological characters including petiole length, leaf area and ornamentation. These characters may serve as identifying parameters of individual species. Chromosome analysis has indicated the somatic chromosome number to range from 2n = 24 to 2n = 28 among these species. The species or varieties of Calathea having the same chromosome number differed in relation to chromosome types and number of chromosomes of individual type. The 4C nuclear DNA contents did not vary much and there was no direct correlation with the ploidy status of these species of Calathea. A variation was recorded among these species in total chromosome length. The chromosome length and volume also did not reveal any direct correlation with chromosome number, instead a consistency in difference of these two characters was noted. Differential coiling of the arm and the ratios of different protein components (histone and non-histone) in chromosome organization have been suggested to be responsible for such differences in chromosome length and volume respectively. It is suggested that cryptic structural alteration in chromosomes has played a role in speciation of this genus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Calathea rubribracteata H. Kenn. endemic to Dept. Valle de Cauca, Colombia, is described as new. It is similar in aspect to the Ecuadorian species C. neillii H. Kenn., C. fredii H. Kenn., C. cofaniorum H. Kenn. and C. shishicoensis H. Kenn. and to the Colombian species C. trianae L.B. Sm. & Idrobo and C. timothei H. Kenn. with several basal leaves and a single cauline leaf or bladeless sheath subtending an inflorescence of bright red or rose-pink bracts. Calathea rubribracteata differs from C. trianae, C. neillii, and C. fredii in the spirally arranged vs. distichous bracts and relatively wider leaf blades (length:width ratios 3.03-3.58:1 vs. 3.55-7.45), from C. timothei by the fewer bracts (6-11 vs. 40-ca. 100) and the usually 3 vs. 7 minor veins between the major veins and from C. shishicoensis by the relatively narrower leaf blades (length:width ratios 3.03-3.58:1 vs. 1.33-1.75:1) and yellow vs. pale pink flowers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vegetation history in tropical Africa is still to date hardly known and the drivers of population differentiation and speciation processes are little documented. It has often been postulated that population fragmentations following climate changes have played a key role in shaping the geographic distribution patterns of genetic diversity and in driving speciation. Here we analyzed phylogeographic patterns (chloroplast-DNA sequences) within and between eight (sister) species of widespread rainforest herbs and lianas from four genera of Marantaceae (Halopegia, Haumania, Marantochloa, Megaphrynium), searching for concordant patterns across species and concordance with the Pleistocene refuge hypothesis. Using 1146 plastid DNA sequences sampled across African tropical lowland rainforest, particularly in the Lower Guinean (LG) phytogeographic region, we analyzed intra- and interspecific patterns of genetic diversity, endemism and distinctiveness. Intraspecific patterns of haplotype diversity were concordant among most species as well as with the species-level diversity pattern of Marantaceae. Highest values were found in the hilly areas of Cameroon and Gabon. However, the spatial distribution of endemic haplotypes, an indicator for refuge areas in general, was not congruent across species. Each proposed refuge exhibited high values of endemism for one or a few species indicating their potential role as area of retraction for the respective species only. Thus, evolutionary histories seem to be diverse across species. In fact, areas of high diversity might have been both refuge and/or crossing zone of recolonization routes i.e., secondary contact zone. We hypothesize that retraction of species into one or the other refuge happened by chance depending on the species' distribution range at the time of climate deterioration. The idiosyncratic patterns found in Marantaceae species are similar to those found among tropical tree species, especially in southern LG. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] Levels of gene flow were compared between three sister species. [•] Sympatric sister species showed either no or high gene flow. [•] One species probably arose through hybridization between the two others. [•] The potential hybrid species maintains high gene flow with one putative parental species. [•] Our comparison with another genus illustrates the diversity of existing introgression patterns in Marantaceae. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Reducing effects of exogenous hydrogen peroxide on leaf rolling in detached leaves of Ctenanthe setosa were studied. The leaves were kept in HO solutions ranging from 0 to 1 mM for 48 h and then, osmotic stress was applied for 4 h by polyethylene glycol (PEG). Degree of leaf rolling, loss of leaf water, and malondialdehyde (MDA) content were reduced by 0.2 mM HO. Antioxidant enzymes were induced by 0.2 mM HO. Endogenous HO content was increased after the 0.5 and 1 mM HO treatments but was decreased after 0.2 mM HO treatment. Proline was decreased after exogenous HO applications. Total soluble sugar content was increased as compared to the control after 0.2 mM HO treatment. In conclusion, low-dose exogenous HO treatment could delay leaf rolling by inducing tolerance to osmotic stress due to modulation of the antioxidant system, soluble sugar accumulation, and maintenance of leaf hydration. Therefore, postharvest life of C. setosa cut foliage could be extended by 0.2 mM HO treatments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phytolelma are pools of water impounded by living terrestrial plants or fallen leaves and seeds, supporting a mini-ecosystem dominated by insects. We surveyed insect communities of floral and leaf phytotelmata of two Zingiberales plants, Heliconia stricta Huber (Heliconiaceae) and Calathea lutea Schult (Marantaceae), in lowland Amazonian rainforest, Peru. We provide a pictorial guide to the adults of 29 morphospecies in 5 orders of insects we found in these phytotelma. Our findings suggest that leaf rolls in Zingiberales plants satisfy the definition of phytotelmata because they retain rainwater and debris and support a community with aquatic, subaquatic and terrestrial insects. The leaf roll community is dominated by chrysomelid and ptiliid beetles; some taxa (weevils) appear to prefer one host plant. The floral fauna is dominated by immature insects and exhibited less taxonomic diversity. Differences in these communities may be due to water quantity, quality (debris), chemistry (from plant secretions and microbes), and seasonality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phrynium nicobaricum Didr., an endemic species from Andaman and Nicobar Islands is lectotypified here. After detailed studies of the type images, protologues of P. paniculatum N.P. Balakr. along with the live collections, it is concluded that both are conspecific. Detailed description, illustrations and photographs are provided for the easy identification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ctenanthe kummeriana (E. Morren) Eichler (Marantaceae) is a cosmopolitan ornamental plant with esthetically appealing color and leaf shape. Pseudautomeris brasiliensis Walker (Lepidoptera: Saturniidae) and a nondescribed species of Stenoma (Lepidoptera: Elachistidae) defoliated this plant in the campus of the Federal University of Viçosa (UFV), Viçosa, Minas Gérais State, Brazil, inspiring the study of the association that prevails among these organisms. This could be a rare event, as the association of Lepidoptera with Marantaceae is scarce, with only two previous reports. The aim of this study was to monitor the caterpillars on the two crops of C. kummeriana, one in the "Horto Botânico" (HB) and another in the "Recanto da Cigarra" (RC) for a period of 1 yr, with particular attention to the shelters and damage caused; to assess the gregarious nature and the emergence of parasitoid and lepidopterans; and to provide an accurate morphologic diagnosis of a parasitoid. P. brasiliensis and Stenoma sp. were recorded after the rainy season, exhibiting similar distribution between HB and RC. Enicospilus tenuigena Kriechbaumer, 1901 (Hymenoptera: Ichneumonidae) emerged from 76.25% of the P. brasiliensis pupae. P. brasiliensis and Stenoma sp. defoliated the C. kummeriana plants between March and June in the UFV campus, whereas the parasitoid E. tenuigena reduced the populations of the first species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Marantaceae family is composed of 550 species of pantropical distribution, with a strong clustering in the Neotropics. Although the family forms a monophyletic group, the circumscription of genera and consequently its phylogenetic relationships are not sufficiently understood. Its species produces silica phytoliths in varied forms, ornamentation and distribution in leaves, and these silica deposits are considered important in vegetable physiology and taxonomy. We have conducted the morphological characterisation of phytoliths and their distribution in foliar blades of Neotropical Marantaceae genera, evaluating the use of such characters to support the morphological delimitation of the genera and the physiological aspects of the family's adaptation to rainforests. Phytoliths of 22 species of 12 genera, namely Calathea, Ctenanthe, Goeppertia, Hylaeanthe, Ischnosiphon, Koernickanthe, Maranta, Monotagma, Myrosma, Saranthe, Stromanthe and Thalia, were analysed using light and scanning electron microscopes. When comparing Neotropical species to those of the old world, one can observe the family's homogeneity by the presence of two morphotypes in the foliar blade, the globular and the irregular, as well as stegmata associated with the fibres. However, two distinguishing features have been identified in these Neotropical species: (1) a new morphotype, the cylindroid, located in the mesophyll, (2) intra- and extracellular amorphous silica deposits associated with the stomata, which play an important role in the restriction of transpiration. In addition, the form, size and distribution of the silica deposits appear conservative in all analysed samples, which makes them useful in the morphological characterisation of the genera and species, and consequently, in the taxonomic circumscription of the Marantaceae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Leaf rolling is a dehydration avoidance mechanism for plants under drought stress. To understand how it affects the lignification process in response to long-term drought stress in Ctenanthe setosa plants that have the leaf-rolling mechanism, the enzymes in lignification were studied in unrolled leaves as a control and at 2 different leaf rolling indices at days 35 and 47 of the drought period. The results indicated that the activities of phenylalanine ammonia lyase, indole-3-acetic acid oxidase, soluble peroxidase, ionically wall-bound peroxidase, covalently wall-bound peroxidase, and polyphenol oxidase were increased during long-term drought stress. However, nitrate reductase activity was decreased while lignin content was increasing during the period of drought. Lignin content was positively correlated to activities of phenylalanine ammonia lyase, indole-3-acetic acid oxidase, soluble peroxidase, ionically wall-bound peroxidase, and polyphenol oxidase, but it was negatively correlated to activity of nitrate reductase. Furthermore, there was a positive correlation between leaf rolling and lignin content. The results indicate that the leaf-rolling process may be related to the lignification mechanism in alleviating damage from stress in Ctenanthe setosa under long-term drought stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Peat mined from endangered wetland ecosystems is generally used as a component in soilless potting media in horticulture but is a costly and non-renewable natural resource. The objective of this work was to study the feasibility of replacing peat with different percentages (0, 10, 30, 50, 70, 90, and 100%) of composted green waste (CGW) as growth media for the production of the ornamental plant Calathea insignis. Compared with 100% peat media, media containing CGW had improved physical and chemical characteristics to achieve the acceptable ranges. Moreover, CGW addition had increased the stability (i.e., reduced the decomposition rates) of growth media mixtures, as indicated by comparison of particle-size distribution at the start and end of a 7-month greenhouse experiment. Addition of CGW also supported increased plant growth (biomass production, root morphology, nutrient contents, and photosynthetic pigment contents). The physical and chemical characteristics of growth media and plant growth were best with a medium containing 70% CGW and were better in a medium with 100% CGW than in one with 100% peat media. These results indicate that CGW is a viable alternative to peat for the cultivation of Calathea insignis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]