Taxonomic synopsis of Caryomene (Menispermaceae) in the Brazilian Amazon

Abstract

Caryomene comprises five species distributed in South America. For more than half a century, the genus has not received taxonomic treatment. However, many recent collections were carried out in Amazonia and new occurrences need to be inserted. The present study aimed to elaborate a synoptic treatment of the species collected in Amazonia and botanical specimens from 32 herbaria. The results pointed out the presence of five species in Amazonia, of which C. grandifolia, C. foveolada, C. olivascens and C. prumnoides are new occurrences. The states of Amazonas and Pará represent the two main distribution centers for the species. The fruit characters are the ones that best separate the species. An identification key, descriptions and illustrations of the species that occur in Amazonia are presented.