Potential of Brazil’s native vanilla species: a study on distribution and research gaps

Abstract The Orchidaceae family represents 10% of all floral diversity, with approximately 900 genera and 28,000 species, exhibiting a wide range of forms and colors. An important genus of this family is Vanilla that contains the chemical compound vanillin, which is globally appreciated and holds high economic value. This genus comprises approximately 110 species, with Vanilla planifolia being the most exploited, although other species may have untapped potential for exploration. The aim of this study was to evaluate, analyze, and compile data on native and endemic species of the genus Vanilla in Brazil, in order to disseminate information about these species and their potential for exploration. The species prospecting was conducted using the Reflora Program database. After the prospecting process, the main areas of occurrence, type of biome, developmental characteristics, and risk classification of each species were identified. In the second stage of this study, an analysis of existing research was conducted using the Web of Science™ scientific database. A total of 36 native species were found, of which 20 are endemic. Vanilla species occurred throughout the country, although there was a higher incidence of these species in the southeastern and northern regions of Brazil. Among the 48 studies found on the Web of Science™ scientific database. There was limited information available on the genus Vanilla from Brazil, and only 16 species have published studies. Among the studied species, Vanilla bahiana displayed specific characteristics that give it a high potential for large-scale production. There are few studies on native and endemic species of Vanilla of Brazil, and most of them are related to species description.