Victoria boliviana
Victoria boliviana Magdalena & L.T.Sm.
Victoria boliviana is a species of aquatic plant in the family Nymphaeaceae, native to Bolivia. It was officially described in 2022 and recognized as the largest species in the genus Victoria. The species is distinguished by its large leaves, which can reach up to 3.2 m in diameter, and by specific morphological and genetic traits, including a convex flower bud and differences in the structure of the carpellary appendages and seeds. Genetic analysis reveals unique mutations in the plastid genome, including insertions, deletions, and a transversion. The species is assessed as Vulnerable due to a small extent of occurrence and area of occupancy, with habitat decline.
Description
Victoria boliviana is a newly described species in the genus Victoria, characterized by its large leaves and distinct morphological features. It differs from V. cruziana by the convex apex of the flower bud, the upturned leaf margin forming a moderate rim, and carpellary appendages with longer upper portions. Genetic differences include a 14 bp insertion, a 5 bp deletion, a 7 bp deletion, and a 42 bp deletion in the plastid genome, along with a unique 4 bp transversion. The species has the largest leaves among Victoria species, with some exceeding 3 m in diameter. The abaxial surface of the leaf rim varies in color from deep maroon to pale green or white. The species is found in Bolivia, with only five known locations. It was awarded three Guinness World Records in 2023 for its size and leaf dimensions.
Distribution
Bolivia
