Taxonomic Synopsis of Mascagnia (Malpighiaceae) of Brazil

Mascagnia (Malpighiaceae) is the lianescent genus with the most convoluted taxonomic history and polyphyly of Malpighiaceae, formerly comprising eight unrelated accepted genera and over 300 species. This genus currently encompasses 48 accepted Neotropical species, of which 20 are reported for Brazil in the taxonomic treatment presented herein. This synopsis was based on the morphological study of specimens deposited in over 80 herbaria using a stereomicroscope, the specialized literature, and consulting type specimens for all accepted species. A total of 20 species of Mascagnia are found in all biomes of Brazil. A taxonomic synopsis is presented for these species, including an identification key, notes on distribution, conservation and taxonomy, and photographic plates for 12 species. Two main morphological groups were identified based on the inflorescence architecture and petal color, and four species were identified as under a conservation threat.