Taxonomic account of begonia species in Ilocos Norte

Abstract

The forests of Ilocos Norte are relatively unexplored and under-collected compared to other forests of the Philippines. Due to this, little is known about the Begonia species of Ilocos Norte. A botanical exploration on the primary forests of Ilocos Norte was conducted to collect and make an updated taxonomic account of these Begonia species. This descriptive study involves taxonomic and morphological characterization, and preparation of herbarium specimens. There are nine Begonia species found in Ilocos Norte. These include Begonia pseudolateralis, B. adamsensis, B. cf. incisa, B. cf. esculenta, B. hernandioides, B. cf. contracta, and three potentially new species designated as Begonia sp. nov. 1, Begonia sp. nov. 2, and Begonia sp. nov. 3. Begonia sp. nov. 1 resembles B. nigritarum, however the new species is smaller, has a different peduncle color, stipule shape, and leaf shape. Furthermore, the species is distinguished by the glittering and shimmering silver hairs of the abaxial lamina. Begonia sp. nov. 2 is similar to B. adamsensis, but differs in leaf base, stipule apex, and tepal shape of staminate flower. Compared to B. adamsensis, Begonia sp. nov. 2 is densely covered with hair except for its flowers. Begonia sp. nov. 3 is identical to B. rufipila except that the new species is entirely glabrous, with a different stipule shape and apex, and an unbranched peduncle. The discovery of these endemic species highlights the huge diversity of Begonia in the Philippines. Their narrow distribution further emphasizes the importance of conservation of these Philippine Begonia species.