Data analysis of Melocactus (Cactaceae) virtual herbarium in the Caatinga biome: a synthesis of reproduction and geographical distribution

Abstract

The objective of this study was to analyze data of the genus Melocactus (Cactaceae) in the Caatinga biome using a virtual herbarium, determine its reproductive aspects, and establish its geographical distribution. Data were collected from the SpeciesLink platform. Notes on exsiccata labels were analyzed to assess reproductive characteristics. Coordinate information was used to develop a distribution map for the genus in the Caatinga biome. A total of 469 records were found in 35 herbaria in Brazil. Melocactus zehntneri stood out with 208 records, followed by M. ernestii, and M. bahiensis. The data were concentrated in a few herbaria, mainly in the Herbarium of the State University of Feira de Santana, which had 28% of the records. Collections were carried out in June (63 records) and in July (59 records). Regarding the reproductive period, Melocactus was active throughout the year, but more concentrated from June to October. The genus is composed of species that depend on animal pollination and dispersal, according to coloration and visitation data. Melocactus is widely distributed throughout the Caatinga, with a tendency to concentrated in drier areas of the biome, in the states of Bahia, Pernambuco, and Paraiba. Herbaria are valuable tools for ecological investigations; therefore, promoting the digitalization of collections and improving the quality and quantity of annotations on specimens are necessary. The genus Melocactus has several characteristics that make it an essential group for maintaining biodiversity in the Caatinga biome.