Begonia sohoton

Begonia sohoton

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B. sohoton

Quick Species Info

Species	sohoton
Region	South East Asia
Country	Philippines
Year Described	2021
Plant Type	rhizomatous
Section	Baryandra
Chr 2n	Unknown

Species Information

Classification

Begonia sohoton is a monoecious perennial herb found in the Sohoton Caves and Natural Bridge National Park on Samar Island, Philippines.

Distribution

This species is exclusively known from the towering and rugged karst cliffs along the Sohoton River in Basey, Samar, Philippines, at an elevation of 120 meters.

Habitat

Begonia sohoton grows on semi-exposed rocky slopes above river water, thriving in the unique karst cliff environment.

Characteristics

- Stem: Prostrate, maroon with white spots, tomentose. - Stipules: Cream, triangular, herbaceous, strongly keeled, and tomentose. - Leaves: Alternate, with asymmetric, oblique, widely ovate blades. - Inflorescence: Axillary, bisexual, cymosely branching panicle. - Flowers: Staminate and pistillate flowers with distinct tepals and other features. - Capsule: Unique with falcate wings.

Etymology

The species is named after the locality "Sohoton River," where it was discovered. "Sohoton" means passing through a narrow passage, reflecting the plant's growth from tiny crevices of limestone walls.

Proposed Conservation Status

Begonia sohoton is known only from the type locality in Basey, Samar. Human activities such as tourism and construction may threaten its habitat. Therefore, it is proposed as Vulnerable (VU D2) following IUCN criteria.

Photos

Additional photos of Begonia sohoton can be included here.

References

ResearchGate

External Links

There are no known external links related to Begonia sohoton.