Siphoneugena carolynae
Siphoneugena carolynae is a species of fruit tree belonging to the Myrtaceae family, recently discovered in the Maricá region, in the state of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. This tree is currently the only known specimen of its species, making it of great interest for botanical studies and biodiversity conservation.
Discovery Siphoneugena carolynae was identified by Thiago Fernandes and João Marcelo Braga, researchers at the Rio de Janeiro Botanical Garden (JBRJ), during an expedition to the Pedra de Itaocaia Municipal Natural Monument, a protected area in Maricá. The tree, which reaches about seven meters in height, was found in a fragment of the Atlantic Forest, a biome known for its rich biodiversity and high level of threat.
Characteristics The tree was named Siphoneugena carolynae in honor of botanist Carolyn E. B. Proença, a professor at the University of Brasília, for her contribution to the study of this new species. The fruits of Siphoneugena carolynae were collected while still green, and researchers predict that, when ripe, they will resemble jabuticabas, given the taxonomic proximity between the species.
Publication The scientific description of Siphoneugena carolynae was published in July 2024 in the journal Brittonia, an important publication of the New York Botanical Garden specializing in botany. The discovery contributes to the knowledge of Brazilian flora and highlights the importance of preserving ecosystems like the Atlantic Forest.
Historical Context The Maricá region, where Siphoneugena carolynae was found, is known for its biodiversity and historical significance. In 1832, British naturalist Charles Darwin visited the region during his voyage aboard the HMS Beagle, staying at the Itaocaia Farm, near the area of the discovery.
Conservation The discovery of Siphoneugena carolynae underscores the importance of protected areas for the conservation of rare and endemic species. Regions such as the Pedra de Itaocaia Municipal Natural Monument play a crucial role in preserving biodiversity, especially in biomes like the Atlantic Forest, which faces ongoing challenges due to deforestation and urbanization.