Impact:

This research will provide a clearer evolutionary framework for two of the most widespread and significant aroid genera, improving taxonomic accuracy and strengthening our understanding of their diversity, evolution, and distribution. The findings will help identify species and lineages that may be at greater risk from habitat loss and environmental change, providing valuable information for future conservation planning. Beyond conservation, the project will advance botanical knowledge of plants that have been cultivated, consumed, and valued throughout the American tropics for centuries, while producing a lasting scientific resource for researchers, conservationists, and the global aroid community. By redrawing portions of the aroid family tree, this work demonstrates how IAS-supported research continues to expand our understanding of Araceae and inspire future discoveries.