Costus maasiorum: a new species of Neotropical Costaceae from western Ecuador

Blumea - Biodiversity Evolution and Biogeography of Plants 2026 Open access

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Authors: D. Skinner, E. Valderrama, J.L. Clark, J.B. Landis, J.J. Harden, C. D. Specht
DOI: 10.3767/blumea.2026.70.01.02
Cited by: 0
References: 16

Abstract

We here describe Costus maasiorum, a new species from western Ecuador. This new species shares morphological similarities with Costus macrostrobilus, but differs in having plicate leaves, erect and triangular bract appendages, and semi-tubular elongate flowers. A phylogeny based on 5.9+ million single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) strongly supports a sister relationship between C. maasiorum and C. macrostrobilus. Additional taxonomic sampling in subsequent analyses indicates a close relationship with C. gibbosus and C. antioquiensis. A comprehensive taxonomic description, including detailed photographs and information about the habitat and ecology of the new species are provided. A preliminary conservation status is recommended as Least Concern (LC).

Fields of Study & Subjects

Plant Diversity and Evolution Botany and Geology in Latin America and Caribbean Fern and Epiphyte Biology

Publication details

Journal / source
Blumea - Biodiversity Evolution and Biogeography of Plants
Volume
70
Issue
1
Pages
116–124
Publication date
7 January 2026
Language
EN