Novelties in Bertolonia (Melastomataceae) from northeastern Brazil

Three new species of Bertolonia are here described from northeastern Brazil: B. igrapiuna Bisewski, Bacci & R. Goldenb., B. riocontensis Bisewski, Bacci & R. Goldenb. and B. violacea Bisewski, Bacci & R. Goldenb. They were recognized as part of a taxonomic study for the genus in the state of Bahia, Brazil. Descriptions, taxonomic comments, ilustrations and conservation status assignments are presented for the new species, as well as information on phenology, habitat and distribution. Bertolonia igrapiuna is categorized as vulnerable (VU) and the others as critically endangered (CR).