Systematic history and updated generic key of the tribe Spathicarpeae (Aroideae, Araceae)

The Neotropical tribe Spathicarpeae (Araceae, Aroideae) comprises 14 genera distributed from southern Mexico to Uruguay. Despite its complex taxonomic history, the tribe lacks a comprehensive historical synthesis that could support future phylogenetic and taxonomic studies. Herein we provide a historical review of the classification of Spathicarpeae based on detailed analysis of the pertinent literature, as well as the examination of specimens preserved in many herbaria. A generic identification key and taxonomic notes on various taxa are also presented. This study aims to serve as a framework for forthcoming phylogenetic analyses and taxonomic revisions within the tribe.