Nepenthes maximoides(Nepenthaceae) a new, critically endangered (possibly extinct) species in Sect.Alataefrom Luzon, Philippines showing striking pitcher convergence withN. maxima(Sect. Regiae) of Indonesia

Abstract

Nepenthes maximoidessp. nov. (Sect.Alatae) is described and assessed as Critically Endangered (Possibly Extinct) from Luzon, Philippines and appears unrecorded in 110 years. The spectacular, large, narrowly funnel-shaped upper pitchers, lids with recurved basal and filiform apical appendages, unlike any other species in the Philippines, closely resemble those ofN. maxima(Sect.Regiae) of Sulawesi–New Guinea, likely due to convergent evolution. Following recent phylogenomic analysis, sect.Alataeis divided into two, Sect.Alatae sensu strictoof Luzon to Sibuyan (includingN. maximoides), and Sect.Micramphorae, expanded and recircumscribed to encompass those species of the southern Visayas, and Mindanao. A key is provided to the six species now recognised in the newly narrowly recircumscribed Sect.Alatae. The number ofNepenthesspecies recorded from Luzon has increased from two in 2001, to eight in 2020, all but one of which are endemic to that island, and four of which appear to be point endemics.