A new species of Columnea (Gesneriaceae) from the Chocó Biogeographic region of Colombia

Expeditions conducted in the Colombian Pacific, together with a critical review of herbarium material, led to the discovery of a new species of Columnea (Gesneriaceae) endemic to the Chocó Biogeographic Region of Colombia. The new species, Columnea magentotricha Parra-Lizc. & Solano-C., is distinguished by its narrowly lanceolate calyx lobes bearing one or two branches per lobe (except for the dorsal lobe), a short tubular corolla 10-14 mm long, and the entire plant densely covered with magenta multicellular trichomes. A detailed morphological comparison with allied species is provided, along with in situ photographs and a botanical illustration. A preliminary conservation assessment is proposed based on the IUCN Red List criteria. The discovery of this endemic species highlights the exceptional floristic singularity of the Chocó region and underscores the urgent need to strengthen taxonomic research and conservation efforts in the Colombian Pacific, one of the most biodiverse yet increasingly threatened regions of the country.