Materials to the revision of the genus Cranichis (Orchidaceae) in Bolivia

Abstract

The diversity of <i>Cranichis</i> in Bolivia is evaluated. An updated key for identifying species is provided. Morphological characteristics of 15 species of Bolivian <i>Cranichis</i> are presented together with illustrations of their floral segments. The occurrence of <i>C.diphylla</i>, <i>C.lehmannii</i>, and <i>C.muscosa</i> in this country was not confirmed. In our opinion the previously published Bolivian record for <i>C.polyantha</i> is doubtful. For the first time, <i>C.badia</i> and <i>C.longipetiolata</i> are reported in this country. Two new species of <i>Cranichis</i> are described.