Trends and gaps in the knowledge of diversity, distribution and conservation of neotropical species of Piper (Piperaceae): a scoping review

The Neotropical region is home to the world's most diverse flora, and Piper is the region's most diverse genus with 1,908 accepted species. A knowledge synthesis of Piper diversity, distribution and conservation in the Neotropical region can support the evidence-based allocation of scarce research resources and the setting of conservation priorities. To characterize the trends and gaps in the knowledge of diversity, distribution and conservation of Neotropical species of Piper, we systematically examined the extent (size), range (variety), and nature (characteristics) of the available scientific evidence using a scoping review method. We found that 52 diverse studies published from 1981 to 2021 addressed diversity (28 studies, 53.8%), conservation (18 studies, 34.6%) and distribution (17 studies, 32.6%). The scientific research on Neotropical Piper species diversity, distribution, and conservation is scarce and diverse presenting opportunities for new research projects.