Twenty-One New Species and Two Subspecies of *Justicia* Discovered in Peru, Highlighting Protected Areas' Role in Conservation

An international research collective, spearheaded by Peruvian scientist Rosa Villanueva Espinosa, has officially announced the identification of twenty-one new species and two new subspecies belonging to the genus Justicia, which is part of the Acanthaceae family, within the borders of Peru. This monumental finding, detailed extensively in the scientific journal PhytoKeys, provides compelling evidence regarding the indispensable function that the nation’s protected natural areas serve in safeguarding unique and previously undocumented flora.

The crucial significance of these conservation zones is powerfully underscored by the fact that twelve of these newly cataloged species were located specifically within seven designated protected areas across Peru. These areas are effectively functioning as vital “living laboratories” for the ongoing study of biodiversity and critical conservation management. Among the most notable identifications are Justicia alpina subsp. machupicchuensis and Justicia valenzuelae, both of which were documented within the boundaries of the Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu.

The comprehensive investigation, which also involved contributions from international experts Yunfei Deng, Robert Scotland, and John R. I. Wood, firmly validates Peru's standing as a pivotal epicenter of species diversity for the Justicia genus throughout South America. Globally, the genus Justicia boasts the highest species count within the Acanthaceae family, encompassing approximately 1000 species distributed across tropical and subtropical regions worldwide.

Beyond the immediate scientific merit, this discovery carries substantial implications for potential pharmacological applications. Numerous species within the Justicia genus have a long history of use in traditional folk medicine, suggesting untapped potential. This opens up promising new avenues for researchers to explore their bioactive compounds and chemical properties. Consequently, these pristine corners of Peru are not merely biological repositories; they also hold the key to potential cultural and medical heritage.

The successful identification and documentation of these 23 distinct plant taxa serve as a powerful reminder of how much biodiversity remains hidden, even in regions that have undergone previous botanical surveys. It reinforces the urgent necessity of maintaining and expanding the boundaries of protected areas, ensuring that these irreplaceable ecosystems continue to thrive as global reservoirs of life and scientific knowledge for generations to come.