The genus Elleanthus C. Presl (Orchidaceae: Sobraliinae) in Rio Grande do Sul State, Brazil

Abstract

Elleanthus embraces about 106 species distributed in tropical and subtropical regions of the Americas. This contribution deals with this genus in Rio Grande do Sul State, Southern Brazil, therefore contributing to the knowledge of its orchid flora. This work is based in both, literature and the analysis of herbarium vouchers. Only one species was recorded: Elleanthus brasiliensis Rchb. f., which dwells as epiphyte or rupicolous in forests within the Atlantic Rain Forest Biome. This contribution does also present the synonymies, description, illustrations, photos, geographic distribution as well as comments on habitat and Natural History for this taxon.