Phytotaxa

**Advances in Velloziaceae: discovery of four new species of Vellozia Vand. from Central Brazil**

BIANCA SCHINDLER — 2025-12-12

Four new species of Vellozia (Velloziaceae) from the Cerrado of Central Brazil are here described and illustrated: Vellozia aroejariensis, from Chapada dos Guimarães in Mato Grosso, and V. glocimarii, V. nana, and V. veadeirensis, from northern Goiás, Brazil. We provide a detailed morphological description of each species, emphasizing the features that set them apart from closely related species within the genus. These distinctions are further discussed in the diagnosis and comments section. We also provide information on their geographical distribution, habitat, geological context, phenology, and preliminary conservation assessment. Field images offer visual support for the descriptions. All four species are narrow endemics, restricted to specific rocky outcrops habitats. This study contributes to a deeper understanding of Vellozia diversity and emphasizes the critical role of Cerrado rocky outcrops to plant endemism and conservation.

**A new species of cactus from the Valle de los Volcanes (Arequipa, Peru): Corryocactus volcanicus (Cactoideae, Cactaceae)**

G. ANTHONY PAUCA-TANCO — 2025-12-12

A new species of columnar cactus, Corryocactus volcanicus, from the Valle de los Volcanes in the department of Arequipa (southern Peru) is described and illustrated. Morphological comparisons are made with two related species, i.e. C. brevistylus and C. brachypetalus. The new species differs in the size and colour of the flowers, morphology of the spines on the fruits, and seeds. Original photographs of the new species and a distribution map are provided. Additionally, the IUCN Red List conservation status of Endangered is proposed.

**A new species of Philodendron (Araceae) associated with quartzite-derived outcrops in Southeastern Brazil**

ALEXANDRE MAGNO — 2025-12-12

Here we describe Philodendron quartziticola, a new species of Araceae from the Atlantic Forest of Espírito Santo, Southeastern Brazil. The species is commonly associated with quartzitic substrates, in addition to environments locally referred to as “Morros de Sal”, which are characterized by saccharoidal quartzite formations. Morphological comparisons with closely related taxa are provided to delimit the new species, as well as photographic plates, field images, and a distribution map to document its morphology and range. This discovery is particularly relevant due to the species’ occurrence in environments heavily impacted by mineral extraction and land-use change.