Microlicia flavorubescens (Melastomataceae: Lavoisiereae), a New Species from Campo Rupestre Vegetation in the Caatinga Domain, Bahia, Brazil

The campo rupestre is a species-rich ecosystem in eastern Brazil, known for its nutrient-poor soils, high levels of plant endemism, and adaptations to extreme environmental conditions. Despite its ecological significance, many regions remain poorly explored, particularly in the Caatinga domain of northern Bahia. In this study, we describe Microlicia flavorubescens , a new species of Melastomataceae discovered in the mountainous areas of Sento Sé, Bahia. The discovery of this species underscores the importance of continued botanical exploration in under-sampled regions of the Caatinga and campo rupestre. Many of these areas are under increasing pressure from anthropogenic activities, such as wind farm development, without formal conservation measures. In addition, while examining Microlicia species from the study area, we found it necessary to resolve a nomenclatural issue involving Microlicia fasciculata , whose epithet is reinstated and further discussed.