From the field to the laboratory: a multidisciplinary approach to conserving the microendemic <i>Vellozia sessilis</i> in Chapada dos Veadeiros, Brazil

Collaboration among institutions, researchers, and citizens was essential at all stages of the study, resulting in the discovery of new populations of V. sessilis and the identification of 29 other rare and/or endangered plant species in biodiversity hotspot of Chapada dos Veadeiros. This comprehensive strategy confirmed the conservation status of V. sessilis as EN. Despite new occurrence data, the number of locations, AOO and EOO, remain below the critical thresholds for the EN category, further reinforced observed threats in the field. This multidisciplinary approach offers a replicable model for the conservation of other microendemic and threatened plant species facing similar challenges, thereby contributing to broader biodiversity conservation efforts.