A taxonomic account of Arecaceae in Vanuatu, with descriptions of three new species

Abstract

The Arecaceae of Vanuatu, as treated here, includes 21 species in 15 genera, of which 14 species and 1 genus are endemic. Five species (in four genera) are non-endemic indigenes, and two species (in two genera) are naturalised introductions. This work provides an overview of the taxonomic history, a preliminary biogeographical assessment, descriptions of genera and species, and notes on informal early references, etymology, distribution and habitats. Conservation status ratings, determined by the World Conservation Monitoring Centre, Cambridge, are provided for each species. Caryota ophiopellis, Hererospathe uniformis and Neoveitchia brunnea are described as new.