Taxonomic synopsis of Plantaginaceae and Scrophulariaceae (Lamiales) in Iguazú and Iguaçu National Parks (Argentina and Brazil)

Abstract

The Iguazú region, where the Iguaçu National Park (Brazil) and the Iguazú National Park (Argentina) are located, encompasses one of the largest continuous remnants of the Atlantic Forest. It is considered a hotspot of biodiversity and an example of a region that is poorly known botanically. Even though non-tree taxa represent most of the Atlantic Forest’s plant diversity, some botanical families that are mainly herbaceous or shrubby, such as Plantaginaceae and Scrophulariaceae, are underrepresented in floristic treatments within this domain. Here, we provide a floristic account for the Plantaginaceae and Scrophulariaceae from the Iguazú and Iguaçu National Parks, including identification keys, illustrations, comments on distribution, habitat, and phenology. A total of 13 species and seven genera were documented. Of these, Stemodia is represented by three species, Bacopa, Buddleja, Mecardonia, and Scoparia are each represented by two species, and two genera, namely Plantago and Veronica, are represented by a single species. Our findings expand the knowledge about the flora of the Southern Cone, contributing important information for the establishment of biodiversity management plans and conservation priorities.