Notes on Ipomoea (Convolvulaceae) from Ecuador

Fieldwork, examination of herbarium specimens and photographic images, supported by molecular sequencing have resulted in the re-interpretation of a number of species of <i>Ipomoea</i> L. found in Ecuador and the recognition of four new species. <i>Ipomoea ophiodes</i> Standl. & Steyerm. is shown to be a distinct species from <i>I. regnellii</i> Meisn. and their contrasting distribution is mapped. An unusual variation in <i>I. setosa</i> Ker Gawl. is discussed and illustrated. It is shown that, whereas <i>I. velardei</i> O'Donell is present in the south of Ecuador, records of <i>I. jujuyensis</i> O'Donell are probably all errors for <i>I. quitensis</i> J.R.I.Wood & Cerón, which is described as a new species endemic to Ecuador. Three other endemic species all known from single locations, <i>I. ceronii</i> J.R.I.Wood & P.Muñoz, <i>I. condorensis</i> J.R.I.Wood & Scotland and <i>I. papyrifera</i> J.R.I.Wood & Scotland are described as new. The full distribution of <i>I. aequatoriensis</i> T.Wells & P.Muñoz is mapped as a result of recent fieldwork and <i>I. amazonica</i> (D.F.Austin & Staples) J.R.I.Wood & Scotland is recorded from Ecuador for the first time. Taxonomic notes, information on habitat and distribution, maps, line drawings and photographs illustrate the species discussed. A key to all 57 species of <i>Ipomoea</i> recorded from Ecuador is provided to facilitate identification.