The genus Crotalaria L. (Leguminosae, Faboideae, Crotalarieae) in the Upper Paraná River Floodplain, Brazil

Abstract

With the aim of expanding knowledge about the flora of the Upper Paraná River Floodplain, especially of the family Leguminosae, was realized a survey of genus Crotalaria L. (Leguminosae-Faboideae). The study area included the upper stretch of this floodplain, located approximately 22º38’ a 22º57’ S e 53º05’ a 53º36’ W, in the states of Paraná and Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil. The material of the study came from samples taken between August 2009 and April 2012, and from the collection of HUEM herbarium. Six species have been recognized, including three natives: Crotalaria incana L., C. maypurensis Kunth and C. micans Link, one endemic: C. vespertilio Benth., and two subspontaneous in Brazil: C. lanceolata E. Mey. and C. pallida Aiton. An identification key for these species as well their morphological descriptions and illustrations were provided.