Tendencias de investigación y vacíos de conocimiento sobre el género Anthurium en Perú: Una revisión sistemática (2000–2025)

Abstract

The genus Anthurium represents one of the greatest floristic diversities within Peru's tropical ecosystems, featuring numerous endemic species of high ornamental, ecological, and scientific value. This study provides a critical review of the state of research on the genus *Anthurium* in Peru between 2000 and 2025, covering studies in taxonomy, ecology, horticulture, and conservation. Thirty-seven studies were identified and analyzed; 15 of these were taxonomic investigations that reported 69 species new to science. Of these records, 37 (53.6%) were concentrated in the Amazonas department, followed by Huánuco (12), Pasco (5), San Martín (4), Cajamarca (4), Loreto (3), Cusco (2), Junín (1), and Piura (1). Ecological research has documented a wide variety of growth habits—terrestrial and epiphytic (including true epiphytes, appressed climbing epiphytes, and epiphytic vines)—at altitudes ranging from 130 to 3,200 meters above sea level, as well as the genus's ecological role as host plants, mutualists, and components of the Amazonian understory. Additionally, specific pollination relationships with euglossine bees and dispersal mechanisms involving bats and ants were recorded. The review highlights the need to strengthen ecological and taxonomic studies in underrepresented regions, develop propagation and micropropagation protocols for native species, and establish ex situ conservation strategies. Future research priorities include strengthening inventories in Pasco, Junín, and Cusco; developing infrastructure and micropropagation protocols; establishing germplasm banks; and enhancing the training of Peruvian specialists in Anthurium taxonomy.