The genus Gongora (Orchidaceae, Stanhopeinae) from state of Mato Grosso, Brazil

Abstract The taxonomic study of Gongora for Mato Grosso state is presented here. The only species found was Gongora nigrita, a yet unpublished record for the central-west region of Brazil and for Mato Grosso, representing a considerable extension of the austral limits of the species. G. nigrita was found in four municipalities, both in the Juruena and Teles Pires river basins, within the Amazon Rainforest biome. A wide variation in flower colour, ranging from brown to yellow with brown spots was recorded. Flower scent resembles indian cloves, and an analysis of the essence revealed eugenol as the predominant chemical substance. Description, taxonomic and ecological comments, distribution and illustrations are provided.