Flora of Ceará, Brazil: Heliotropiaceae

Abstract

The taxonomic floristic survey of the Heliotropiaceae species in Ceará state is part of the “Flora of Ceará: knowing to conserve” project. The study was based on specimens deposited in national and international herbaria, relevant bibliography, images of type specimens, and field trips. Fourteen species belonging to three genera were recorded: Euploca (six spp.) was the most representative in number of species, followed by Heliotropium and Myriopus (four spp. each). Euploca paradoxa is endemic to Brazil, being a new occurrence for Ceará. Most species occur in Conservation Units, except for Euploca humilis, E. paradoxa, Heliotropium angiospermum, and H. funkiae. The species occur predominantly in dry habitats, such as Stepic Savanna (Caatinga), however some species have been recorded in more humid areas, such as Ombrophilous Forest and coastal vegetation.

Key words
Boraginales; floristic; Northeastern region; taxonomy