Distribution and conservation of Eriocaulaceae in Espírito Santo, Brazil

Abstract

In order to evaluate the diversity and conservation of Eriocaulaceae in Espírito Santo state, a detailed geographical distribution of the species is provided based on herbarium specimens and field expeditions. Twenty‐two species were recorded, half of them belonging to Paepalanthus. Fourteen species are typical from sand dunes and eight occur only in montane grasslands. Most of the species are recorded from conservation‐priority areas. Thirteen conservation units have records of Eriocaulaceae, and the majority of the species occur in at least one of these conservation units. The low floristic similarity of the conservation units in the state suggests each unit as fundamental and irreplaceable for the conservation of Eriocaulaceae. The main threat to the Eriocaulaceae species is the ongoing conversion of habitats for cultivation of species of economic interest.