Additional notes on Ipomoea (Convolvulaceae) in Bolivia

Area of Science:

• Botany
• Biodiversity research
• Taxonomy

Background:

• The genus Ipomoea L. is diverse, with ongoing research needed to fully document its species distribution and taxonomic status.
• Accurate species inventories are crucial for understanding plant biodiversity and for conservation efforts.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a comprehensive checklist of Ipomoea L. species in Bolivia.
• To describe new species and country records within the Ipomoea L. genus in Bolivia.
• To clarify taxonomic ambiguities and correct previous misidentifications.

Main Methods:

• Field surveys and specimen collection in Bolivia.
• Morphological analysis and comparison of collected specimens with existing herbarium material.
• Literature review and taxonomic keys for species identification.

Main Results:

• A total of 109 species of Ipomoea L. are recorded for Bolivia.
• Six new country records for Ipomoea L. in Bolivia were identified.
• Two new species, Ipomoea prolifera and Ipomoea inaccessa, are described. Ipomoea jujuyensis was excluded.
• Detailed description and taxonomic comparison of Ipomoea subalata.

Conclusions:

• The study expands the known diversity of Ipomoea L. in Bolivia.
• The findings contribute to a more accurate taxonomic understanding of the Ipomoea L. genus in South America.
• The provided descriptions, illustrations, and distribution maps will aid future botanical research and identification efforts.