Cactaceae in the state of Paraná, Brasil

Abstract

A taxonomic survey of the Cactaceae from Paraná state, Brazil, is presented here. Methodology includes an analysis of herbarium specimens and fieldwork in all biomes in the state. Twelve genera and 26 native species were catalogued for Paraná. The richest genera are Rhipsalis, with 11 species, Lepismium (4), and Schlumbergera (2). The other genera are monospecific: Brasiliopuntia brasiliensis, Cereus hildmannianus, Epiphyllum phyllanthus, Hatiora salicornioides, Hylocereus setaceus, Opuntia monacantha, Parodia carambeiensis, Pereskia aculeata and Praecereus euchlorus. Paraná state is the northern limit of S. rosea and S. gaertneri, and the southern limit of B. brasiliensis, H. salicornioides and R. pilocarpa. Parodia carambeiensis is the only endemic species of Cactaceae in the state. We present descriptions, identification keys, illustrations, and comments on the taxonomy of these species.