Taxonomic update on the begonia species of Surigao del Norte

Abstract

Plant endemism in the province of Surigao del Norte has been poorly studied and no taxonomic update with the current species it holds. Due to this, taxonomic claims of five species of Begonia in Surigao namely Begonia bolsteri, B. leucosticta, B. longibractea, B. longistipula and B. mindanaensis, were reinvestigated. This study revisited the area and conducted a study of the genus Begonia, which included morphological characterization as well as preparation of herbarium specimens. Five species of Begonia were collected: Begonia acuminatisima, B. colorata, B. leucosticta, and two possible new species. Begonia sp. nov. 1 was compared with another Philippine rugulose species, B. obtusifolia. Begonia sp. nov. 2 resembles another peltate species found in Mindanao, B. elmeri. The new record of B. acuminatissima in Surigao del Norte updates the distribution of Begonia species within Mindanao. The discovery of the presence of these endemic begonias further promotes the diversity of species in the Philippines. The threats that accompany with each species further reinforce the importance of their conservation.