New records and conservation status of tree species from environmental licensing studies in highly human-modified areas in Bahia, northeastern Brazil

Abstract

Based on fieldwork for licensing environmental impact studies in Bahia, northeastern Brazil, we present new records of five tree species, including two species known only from their type locality. The records mostly originate from highly human-modified areas in Atlantic Forest, which we argue that should not be underestimated by environmental licensing studies. We assess the conservation status of the five species and highlight the importance of using trained botanists for recording species of conservation concern. Our data demonstrate that studies for environmental licensing can contribute knowledge and aid in biodiversity conservation.