Overview of the Amazonian vegetation in Maranhão: floristic richness of Anajatuba

Abstract The Amazonia domain in Maranhão has high biodiversity but only a small portion is protected by Conservation Units. This study analyzed the vegetation in Anajatuba and focused on angiosperms. The compilation involved searching the speciesLink and Reflora platforms and prioritizing the most recent vouchers identified and deposited in herbaria. We compiled 493 records that represent 220 species. Due to their growth habits and dispersal mechanisms, Fabaceae and Asteraceae were the most diverse families, while Poaceae and Cyperaceae had the fewest records. The species with the most records are associated with food use or common in anthropogenic areas. Records of herbaceous strata are prevalent, and there are few records of woody species and palms. Most species are native; however, some exotic and cultivated species were also found, highlighting potential risks to the native flora. Only Handroanthus impetiginosus was recognized as near threatened. The study identified a 10-year gap in floristic records for the area, emphasizing the need for updating floristic data, especially due to the rise in deforestation and the need for conserving Amazonia in Maranhão.