Confirmed record of Bacopa sessiliflora (Benth.) Edwall (Plantaginaceae) in the Brazilian Cerrado

Abstract

Bacopa sessiliflora (Benth.) Edwall (Plantaginaceae) is an aquatic herb that inhabits the banks of watercourses in the Neotropics. In this study, we confirmed the occurrence of the species in the Cerrado following a field collection on the banks of the Preto River, in eastern Maranhão state, Brazil, and the study of herbarium materials. A morphological description, illustrations, phenological data, and a distribution map of B. sessiliflora are provided. The new data highlight the importance of permanent protected areas, especially riverbanks, as crucial habitats for increasing our understanding of plant biodiversity in Maranhão.

Keywords

• Gratioleae
• Lamiales
• Maranhão
• riparian vegetatio