Nepenthes candalaga (Nepenthaceae), a new species from eastern Mindanao, Philippines

A new endemic species, Nepenthes candalaga (Nepenthes sect. Alata) from Mt. Candalaga (eastern Mindanao, Philippines) is here described and illustrated. This new taxon resembles N. justinae but can be easily distinguished in having the lamina with 2???3 longitudinal nerves, orbicular lid, non-bifid lid spur tip, triangular lid appendage, short banner-shaped trap wings, and absent upper pitcher rim. The species is assessed as Critically Endangered (CE) according to the IUCN criteria. This novelty is the 38th species of Nepenthes in Mindanao making the island with the highest concentration of Nepenthes species in the Philippines. This discovery increases the number of Nepenthes species in the Philippines to 61. The new taxon described faces threats of deforestation and habitat loss without legislative protection.

Automated summary

A new endemic species of Nepenthes, known as Nepenthes candalaga, has been discovered in Mt. Candalaga, eastern Mindanao, Philippines. This species is easily distinguished from other species by its unique characteristics, and it is assessed as Critically Endangered. The discovery of this new taxon increases the number of Nepenthes species in the Philippines to 61 and highlights the urgent need for legislative protection to prevent deforestation and habitat loss.