Expansion of the distribution range and ecological niche modeling of Philodendron asplundii (Araceae) in South America

Philodendron (Araceae) is one of the richest ornamental genera in the Neotropics, comprising over 600 species. Here, we report the expansion of the eastern distribution of Philodendron asplundii with a new record from the Brazilian state of Pará. We present a detailed morphological description and images of P. asplundii, an updated distribution map, and the results of the ecological niche modeling of the species based on bioclimatic data and the Maxent, Bioclim, Random Forest and Support Vector Machine algorithms (Ensemble Model). Philodendron asplundii occurs in Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, French Guiana, Perú, and Venezuela. The ecological niche model indicated that P. asplundii has a higher probability of distribution in the northern region of South America, mainly in the central and northwestern part of the Amazon. The model also suggested high habitat suitability in Ecuador’s areas of Andean forests, and in Northern Guyana. These suitable areas for the occurrence of P. asplundii are located in regions with high risk of forest cover loss due to anthropogenic activities. Thus, conservation plans are necessary to avoid the loss of appropriate habitats for the species.