Expansion of the distribution range and ecological niche modeling of Philodendron asplundii (Araceae) in South America

Philodendron (Araceae) is one of the richest ornamental genera in the Neotropics, comprising over600 species. Here, we report the expansion of the eastern distribution of Philodendron asplundii witha new record from the Brazilian state of Pará. We present a detailed morphological description andimages of P. asplundii, an updated distribution map, and the results of the ecological niche modelingof the species based on bioclimatic data and the Maxent, Bioclim, Random Forest and SupportVector Machine algorithms (Ensemble Model). Philodendron asplundii occurs in Brazil, Colombia,Ecuador, French Guiana, Perú, and Venezuela. The ecological niche model indicated that P. asplundiihas a higher probability of distribution in the northern region of South America, mainly in the centraland northwestern part of the Amazon. The model also suggested high habitat suitability in Ecuador’sareas of Andean forests, and in Northern Guyana. These suitable areas for the occurrence of P.asplundii are located in regions with high risk of forest cover loss due to anthropogenic activities.Thus, conservation plans are necessary to avoid the loss of appropriate habitats for the species.