Two new records of Jumellea (Orchidaceae) for Mauritius (Mascarene Islands) and their conservation status

Abstract : Two new records of Jumellea for the island of Mauritius (Indian Ocean), J. exilis and J. rossii are reported from incorrectly attributed past collections. Sampling over the last four decades on Mauritius recorded only a few localities for J. exilis, while J. rossii is known from only a single collection. Recent surveys confirm that J. exilis is very rare, qualifying as Critically Endangered on Mauritius according to the IUCN Red List Criteria, and J. rossii should be considered as probably Extinct. An updated key to the Jumellea of Mauritius is provided. Threats besetting the species and other orchids in general in Mauritius are discussed and conservation measures suggested.