Agricultural and Biological Sciences › Ecology, Evolution, Behavior and Systematics

Plant Diversity and Evolution

Works Count: 70761

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This cluster of papers explores the evolution, classification, and biogeography of flowering plants, particularly focusing on the phylogeny, diversification, and historical biogeography of angiosperms. It covers topics such as molecular phylogenetics, taxonomic classification, plant diversity, and the evolutionary history of flowering plants.

Keywords

Angiosperm Phylogeny; Flowering Plants; Biogeography; Diversification; Phylogenetics; Evolutionary History; Taxonomy; Molecular Phylogeny; Plant Diversity; Historical Biogeography

Molecular Systematics: 1994–1995

1997-01-01

Kenneth J. Sytsma , William J. Hahn

An update of the Angiosperm Phylogeny Group classification for the orders and families of flowering plants. {APG} {III}

2009-01-01

Apg Iii

Vascular Plant Systematics

1975-05-01

R. S. Cowan , Albert E. Radford , William C. Dickison +2 more

The origin and early evolution of plants on land

1997-09-01

Paul Kenrick , Peter R. Crane

The earliest angiosperms: evidence from mitochondrial, plastid and nuclear genomes

1999-11-25

Yin‐Long Qiu , Jung-Ho Lee , Fabiana Bernasconi‐Quadroni +6 more

Paleobotany: The Biology and Evolution of Fossil Plants

2009-03-01

Rubén Cúneo

Paleobotany and the Evolution of Plants

1994-01-01

R. M. Schuster , Wilson N. Stewart , Gar W. Rothwell

Neotropical seasonally dry forests and Quaternary vegetation changes

2000-03-01

R. Toby Pennington , Darién E. Prado , Colin A. Pendry

Abstract Seasonally dry tropical forests have been largely ignored in discussions of vegetation changes during the Quaternary. We distinguish dry forests, which are essentially tree‐dominated ecosystems, from open savannas that … Abstract Seasonally dry tropical forests have been largely ignored in discussions of vegetation changes during the Quaternary. We distinguish dry forests, which are essentially tree‐dominated ecosystems, from open savannas that have a xeromorphic fire‐tolerant, grass layer and grow on dystrophic, acid soils. Seasonally dry tropical forests grow on fertile soils, usually have a closed canopy, have woody floras dominated by the Leguminosae and Bignoniaceae and a sparse ground flora with few grasses. They occur in disjunct areas throughout the Neotropics. The Chaco forests of central South America experience regular annual frosts, and are considered a subtropical extension of temperate vegetation formations. At least 104 plant species from a wide range of families are each found in two or more of the isolated areas of seasonally dry tropical forest scattered across the Neotropics, and these repeated patterns of distribution suggest a more widespread expanse of this vegetation, presumably in drier and cooler periods of the Pleistocene. We propose a new vegetation model for some areas of the Ice‐Age Amazon: a type of seasonally dry tropical forest, with rain forest and montane taxa largely confined to gallery forest. This model is consistent with the distributions of contemporary seasonally dry tropical forest species in Amazonia and existing palynological data. The hypothesis of vicariance of a wider historical area of seasonally dry tropical forests could be tested using a cladistic biogeographic approach focusing on plant genera that have species showing high levels of endemicity in the different areas of these forests.

Outline of the classification of flowering plants (magnoliophyta)

1980-07-01

Armen Takhtajan

A metacalibrated time‐tree documents the early rise of flowering plant phylogenetic diversity

2015-01-23

Susana Magallón , Sandra Luz Gómez‐Acevedo , Luna L. Sánchez‐Reyes +1 more

The establishment of modern terrestrial life is indissociable from angiosperm evolution. While available molecular clock estimates of angiosperm age range from the Paleozoic to the Late Cretaceous, the fossil record … The establishment of modern terrestrial life is indissociable from angiosperm evolution. While available molecular clock estimates of angiosperm age range from the Paleozoic to the Late Cretaceous, the fossil record is consistent with angiosperm diversification in the Early Cretaceous. The time-frame of angiosperm evolution is here estimated using a sample representing 87% of families and sequences of five plastid and nuclear markers, implementing penalized likelihood and Bayesian relaxed clocks. A literature-based review of the palaeontological record yielded calibrations for 137 phylogenetic nodes. The angiosperm crown age was bound within a confidence interval calculated with a method that considers the fossil record of the group. An Early Cretaceous crown angiosperm age was estimated with high confidence. Magnoliidae, Monocotyledoneae and Eudicotyledoneae diversified synchronously 135-130 million yr ago (Ma); Pentapetalae is 126-121 Ma; and Rosidae (123-115 Ma) preceded Asteridae (119-110 Ma). Family stem ages are continuously distributed between c. 140 and 20 Ma. This time-frame documents an early phylogenetic proliferation that led to the establishment of major angiosperm lineages, and the origin of over half of extant families, in the Cretaceous. While substantial amounts of angiosperm morphological and functional diversity have deep evolutionary roots, extant species richness was probably acquired later.

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A method for the extraction of chlorophyll from leaf tissue without maceration

1979-06-15

Jennifer Hiscox , G. F. Israelstam

A simple, rapid method requiring few manipulations for the extraction of chlorophylls from fragmented leaf tissue of angiosperms and gymnosperms is compared with the widely used acetone method. Unlike the … A simple, rapid method requiring few manipulations for the extraction of chlorophylls from fragmented leaf tissue of angiosperms and gymnosperms is compared with the widely used acetone method. Unlike the acetone method where grinding and subsequent centrifugation are essential, this method makes use of incubation at 65 °C of leaf tissue immersed in dimethyl sulphoxide. The new method was found to be as efficient as acetone for chlorophyll extraction and superior in terms of chlorophyll stability.

Phylotranscriptomic analysis of the origin and early diversification of land plants

2014-10-29

Norman J. Wickett , Siavash Mirarab , Nam Nguyen +7 more

Significance Early branching events in the diversification of land plants and closely related algal lineages remain fundamental and unresolved questions in plant evolutionary biology. Accurate reconstructions of these relationships are … Significance Early branching events in the diversification of land plants and closely related algal lineages remain fundamental and unresolved questions in plant evolutionary biology. Accurate reconstructions of these relationships are critical for testing hypotheses of character evolution: for example, the origins of the embryo, vascular tissue, seeds, and flowers. We investigated relationships among streptophyte algae and land plants using the largest set of nuclear genes that has been applied to this problem to date. Hypothesized relationships were rigorously tested through a series of analyses to assess systematic errors in phylogenetic inference caused by sampling artifacts and model misspecification. Results support some generally accepted phylogenetic hypotheses, while rejecting others. This work provides a new framework for studies of land plant evolution.

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CLASSIFICATION OF THE ARCHITECTURE OF DICOTYLEDONOUS LEAVES

1973-01-01

Leo Hickey

A classification of the architectural features of dicot leaves—i.e., the placement and form of those elements constituting the outward expression of leaf structure, including shape, marginal configuration, venation, and gland … A classification of the architectural features of dicot leaves—i.e., the placement and form of those elements constituting the outward expression of leaf structure, including shape, marginal configuration, venation, and gland position—has been developed as the result of an extensive survey of both living and fossil leaves. This system partially incorporates modifications of two earlier classifications: that of Turrill for leaf shape and that of Von Ettingshausen for venation pattern. After categorization of such features as shape of the whole leaf and of the apex and base, leaves are separated into a number of classes depending on the course of their principal venation. Identification of order of venation, which is fundamental to the application of the classification, is determined by size of a vein at its point of origin and to a lesser extent by its behavior in relation to that of other orders. The classification concludes by describing features of the areoles, i.e., the smallest areas of leaf tissue surrounded by veins which form a contiguous field over most of the leaf. Because most taxa of dicots possess consistent patterns of leaf architecture, this rigorous method of describing the features of leaves is of immediate usefulness in both modern and fossil taxonomic studies. In addition, as a result of this method, it is anticipated that leaves will play an increasingly important part in phylogenetic and ecological studies.

Fossil pollen records of extant angiosperms

1981-01-01

Jan‐Peter Müller

ABSOLUTE DIVERSIFICATION RATES IN ANGIOSPERM CLADES

2001-09-01

Susana Magallón , Michael J. Sanderson

Abstract The extraordinary contemporary species richness and ecological predominance of flowering plants (angiosperms) are even more remarkable when considering the relatively recent onset of their evolutionary diversification. We examine the … Abstract The extraordinary contemporary species richness and ecological predominance of flowering plants (angiosperms) are even more remarkable when considering the relatively recent onset of their evolutionary diversification. We examine the evolutionary diversification of angiosperms and the observed differential distribution of species in angiosperm clades by estimating the rate of diversification for angiosperms as a whole and for a large set of angiosperm clades. We also identify angiosperm clades with a standing diversity that is either much higher or lower than expected, given the estimated background diversification rate. Recognition of angiosperm clades, the phylogenetic relationships among them, and their taxonomic composition are based on an empirical compilation of primary phylogenetic studies. By making an integrative and critical use of the paleobotanical record, we obtain reasonably secure approximations for the age of a large set of angiosperm clades. Diversification was modeled as a stochastic, time-homogeneous birth-and-death process that depends on the diversification rate (r) and the relative extinction rate (∈). A statistical analysis of the birth and death process was then used to obtain 95% confidence intervals for the expected number of species through time in a clade that diversifies at a rate equal to that of angiosperms as a whole. Confidence intervals were obtained for stem group and for crown group ages in the absence of extinction (∈= 0.0) and under a high relative extinction rate (∈= 0.9). The standing diversity of angiosperm clades was then compared to expected species diversity according to the background rate of diversification, and, depending on their placement with respect to the calculated confidence intervals, exceedingly species-rich or exceedingly species-poor clades were identified. The rate of diversification for angiosperms as a whole ranges from 0.077 (∈= 0.9) to 0.089 (∈= 0.0) net speciation events per million years. Ten clades fall above the confidence intervals of expected species diversity, and 13 clades were found to be unexpectedly species poor. The phylogenetic distribution of clades with an exceedingly high number of species suggests that traits that confer high rates of diversification evolved independently in different instances and do not characterize the angiosperms as a whole.

Detection of nickeliferous rocks by analysis of herbarium specimens of indicator plants

1977-01-01

Robert R. Brooks , J Lee , Roger D. Reeves +1 more

Plant molecular phylogeography in China and adjacent regions: Tracing the genetic imprints of Quaternary climate and environmental change in the world’s most diverse temperate flora

2011-02-02

Ying‐Xiong Qiu , Cheng-Xing Fu , Hans Peter Comes

Stomatal Size in Fossil Plants: Evidence for Polyploidy in Majority of Angiosperms

1994-04-15

Jane Masterson

Three published estimates of the frequency of polyploidy in angiosperms (30 to 35 percent, 47 percent, and 70 to 80 percent) were tested by estimating the genome size of extinct … Three published estimates of the frequency of polyploidy in angiosperms (30 to 35 percent, 47 percent, and 70 to 80 percent) were tested by estimating the genome size of extinct woody angiosperms with the use of fossil guard cell size as a proxy for cellular DNA content. The inferred chromosome numbers of these extinct species suggest that seven to nine is the primitive haploid chromosome number of angiosperms and that most angiosperms (approximately 70 percent) have polyploidy in their history.

Phylomatic: tree assembly for applied phylogenetics

2004-12-16

Campbell O. Webb , Michael J. Donoghue

Abstract Phylomatic ( http://www.phylodiversity.net/phylomatic ) is an online phylogenetic query tool where users submit a list of taxa (e.g. from an ecological community), with modern family and genus names, and … Abstract Phylomatic ( http://www.phylodiversity.net/phylomatic ) is an online phylogenetic query tool where users submit a list of taxa (e.g. from an ecological community), with modern family and genus names, and which returns a phylogenetic hypothesis for the relationships among taxa. Any set of stored phylogenies, or a user‐supplied one, can be chosen as the basis for the returned phylogeny, and several output formats for the tree can be selected. Currently, the source databases cover seed plants.

Approaches to the identification of angiosperm leaf remains

1974-01-01

David L. Dilcher

Molecular Systematics of Plants

1992-01-01

Douglas E. Soltis , Pamela S. Soltis , Jeff J. Doyle

The Physiological Ecology of Woody Plants

1991-03-01

Tomasz Kozłowski , Paul J. Kramer , S. G. Pallardy

The Physiological Ecology of Woody Plants Get access The Physiological Ecology of Woody Plants Theodore T. Kozlowski, Paul J. Kramer, Stephen G. Pallardy Academic Press, New York, Tokyo, London, Toronto, … The Physiological Ecology of Woody Plants Get access The Physiological Ecology of Woody Plants Theodore T. Kozlowski, Paul J. Kramer, Stephen G. Pallardy Academic Press, New York, Tokyo, London, Toronto, Sydney: 1991, 657 pages, $69.95 U.S., ISBN 0-12-424160-3 Theodore T. Kozlowski, Theodore T. Kozlowski Search for other works by this author on: Oxford Academic PubMed Google Scholar Paul J. Kramer, Paul J. Kramer Search for other works by this author on: Oxford Academic PubMed Google Scholar Stephen G. Pallardy Stephen G. Pallardy Search for other works by this author on: Oxford Academic PubMed Google Scholar Tree Physiology, Volume 8, Issue 2, March 1991, Page 213, https://doi.org/10.1093/treephys/8.2.213 Published: 01 March 1991

Four hundred-million-year-old vesicular arbuscular mycorrhizae.

1994-12-06

Winfried Remy , Thomas N. Taylor , Hagen Hass +1 more

The discovery of arbuscules in Aglaophyton major, an Early Devonian land plant, provides unequivocal evidence that mycorrhizae were established >400 million years ago. Nonseptate hyphac and arbuscules occur in a … The discovery of arbuscules in Aglaophyton major, an Early Devonian land plant, provides unequivocal evidence that mycorrhizae were established >400 million years ago. Nonseptate hyphac and arbuscules occur in a specialized meristematic region of the cortex that continually provided new cells for fungal infection. Arbuscules are morphologically identical to those of living arbuscular mycorrhizae in consisting of a basal trunk and repeatedly branched bush-like tuft within the plant cell. Although interpretations of the evolution of mycorrhizal mutualisms continue to be speculative, the existence of arbuscules in the Early Devonian indicates that nutrient transfer mutualism may have been in existence when plants invaded the land.

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THE LIMITS OF AMINO ACID SEQUENCE DATA IN ANGIOSPERM PHYLOGENETIC RECONSTRUCTION

1988-07-01

Kåre Bremer

Amino acid sequence data are available for ribulose biphosphate carboxylase, plastocyanin, cytochrome c, and ferredoxin for a number of angiosperm families. Cladistic analysis of the data, including evaluation of all … Amino acid sequence data are available for ribulose biphosphate carboxylase, plastocyanin, cytochrome c, and ferredoxin for a number of angiosperm families. Cladistic analysis of the data, including evaluation of all equally or almost equally parsimonious cladograms, shows that much homoplasy (parallelisms and reversals) is present and that few or no well supported monophyletic groups of families can be demonstrated. In one analysis of nine angiosperm families and 40 variable amino acid positions from three proteins, the most parsimonious cladograms were 151 steps long and contained 63 parallelisms and reversals (consistency index = 0.583). In another analysis of six families and 53 variable amino acid positions from four proteins, the most parsimonious cladogram was 161 steps long and contained 50 parallelisms and reversals (consistency index = 0.689). Single changes in both data matrices could yield most parsimonious cladograms with quite different topologies and without common monophyletic groups. Presently, amino acid sequence data are not comprehensive enough for phylogenetic reconstruction among angiosperms. More informative positions are needed, either from sequencing longer parts of the proteins or from sequencing more proteins from the same taxa.

Evolution of the angiosperms: calibrating the family tree

2001-11-07

Niklas Wikström , Vincent Savolainen , Mark W. Chase

Growing evidence of morphological diversity in angiosperm flowers, seeds and pollen from the mid Cretaceous and the presence of derived lineages from increasingly older geological deposits both imply that the … Growing evidence of morphological diversity in angiosperm flowers, seeds and pollen from the mid Cretaceous and the presence of derived lineages from increasingly older geological deposits both imply that the timing of early angiosperm cladogenesis is older than fossil–based estimates have indicated. An alternative to fossils for calibrating the phylogeny comes from divergence in DNA sequence data. Here, angiosperm divergence times are estimated using non–parametric rate smoothing and a three–gene dataset covering ca. 75– of all angiosperm families recognized in recent classifications. The results provide an initial hypothesis of angiosperm diversification times. Using an internal calibration point, an independent evaluation of angiosperm and eudicot origins is performed. The origin of the crown group of extant angiosperms is indicated to be Early to Middle Jurassic (179–158 Myr), and the origin of eudicots is resolved as Late Jurassic to mid Cretaceous (147–131 Myr). Both estimates, despite a conservative calibration point, are older than current fossil–based estimates.

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Evolutionary Rates Analysis of Leguminosae Implicates a Rapid Diversification of Lineages during the Tertiary

2005-08-01

Matt Lavin , Patrick S. Herendeen , Martin F. Wojciechowski

Tertiary macrofossils of the flowering plant family Leguminosae (legumes) were used as time constraints to estimate ages of the earliest branching clades identified in separate plastid matK and rbcL gene … Tertiary macrofossils of the flowering plant family Leguminosae (legumes) were used as time constraints to estimate ages of the earliest branching clades identified in separate plastid matK and rbcL gene phylogenies. Penalized likelihood rate smoothing was performed on sets of Bayesian likelihood trees generated with the AIC-selected GTR+ Γ +I substitution model. Unequivocal legume fossils dating from the Recent continuously back to about 56 million years ago were used to fix the family stem clade at 60 million years (Ma), and at 1-Ma intervals back to 70 Ma. Specific fossils that showed distinctive combinations of apomorphic traits were used to constrain the minimum age of 12 specific internal nodes. These constraints were placed on stem rather than respective crown clades in order to bias for younger age estimates. Regardless, the mean age of the legume crown clade differs by only 1.0 to 2.5 Ma from the fixed age of the legume stem clade. Additionally, the oldest caesalpinioid, mimosoid, and papilionoid crown clades show approximately the same age range of 39 to 59 Ma. These findings all point to a rapid family-wide diversification, and predict few if any legume fossils prior to the Cenozoic. The range of the matK substitution rate, 2.1–24.6 × 10−10 substitutions per site per year, is higher than that of rbcL, 1.6–8.6 × 10−10, and is accompanied by more uniform rate variation among codon positions. The matK and rbcL substitution rates are highly correlated across the legume family. For example, both loci have the slowest substitution rates among the mimosoids and the fastest rates among the millettioid legumes. This explains why groups such as the millettioids are amenable to species-level phylogenetic analysis with these loci, whereas other legume groups are not.

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Gaps as Characters in Sequence-Based Phylogenetic Analyses

2000-06-01

Mark P. Simmons , Helga Ochoterena

In the analysis of sequence-based data matrices, the use of different methods of treating gaps has been demonstrated to in? fluence the resulting phylogenetic hypothe? ses (e.g., Eernisse and Kluge, … In the analysis of sequence-based data matrices, the use of different methods of treating gaps has been demonstrated to in? fluence the resulting phylogenetic hypothe? ses (e.g., Eernisse and Kluge, 1993; Vogler and DeSalle, 1994; Simons and Mayden, 1997). Despite this influence, a well-justi? fied, uniformly applied method of treating gaps is lacking in sequence-based phyloge? netic studies. Treatment of gaps varies widely from secondarily mapping gaps onto the tree inferred from base characters

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Three keys to the radiation of angiosperms into freezing environments

2013-12-20

Amy E. Zanne , David C. Tank , William K. Cornwell +7 more

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Angiosperm phylogeny inferred from 18S rDNA, rbcL, and atpB sequences

2000-08-01

Pamela S. Soltis , Mark W. Chase , Mark E. Mort +7 more

A phylogenetic analysis of a combined data set for 560 angiosperms and seven outgroups based on three genes, 18S rDNA (1855 bp), rbcL (1428 bp), and atpB (1450 bp) representing … A phylogenetic analysis of a combined data set for 560 angiosperms and seven outgroups based on three genes, 18S rDNA (1855 bp), rbcL (1428 bp), and atpB (1450 bp) representing a total of 4733 bp is presented. Parsimony analysis was expedited by use of a new computer program, the RATCHET. Parsimony jackknifing was performed to assess the support of clades. The combination of three data sets for numerous species has resulted in the most highly resolved and strongly supported topology yet obtained for angiosperms. In contrast to previous analyses based on single genes, much of the spine of the tree and most of the larger clades receive jackknife support ≥50%. Some of the noneudicots form a grade followed by a strongly supported eudicot clade. The early-branching angiosperms are Amborellaceae, Nymphaeaceae, and a clade of Austrobaileyaceae, Illiciaceae, and SchiÍsandraceae. The remaining noneudicots, except Ceratophyllaceae, form a weakly supported core eumagnoliid clade comprising six well-supported subclades: Chloranthaceae, monocots, Winteraceae/Canellaceae, Piperales, Laurales, and Magnoliales. Ceratophyllaceae are sister to the eudicots. Within the well-supported eudicot clade, the early-diverging eudicots (e.g. Proteales, Ranunculales, Trochodendraceae, Sabiaceae) form a grade, followed by the core eudicots, the monophyly of which is also strongly supported. The core eudicots comprise six well-supported subclades: (1) Berberidopsidaceae/Aextoxicaceae; (2) Myrothamnaceae/Gunneraceae; (3) Saxifragales, which are the sister to Vitaceae (including Leea) plus a strongly supported eurosid clade; (4) Santalales; (5) Caryophyllales, to which Dilleniaceae are sister; and (6) an asterid clade. The relationships among these six subclades of core eudicots do not receive strong support. This large data set has also helped place a number of enigmatic angiosperm families, including Podostemaceae, Aphloiaceae, and Ixerbaceae. This analysis further illustrates the tractability of large data sets and supports a recent, phylogenetically based, ordinal-level reclassification of the angiosperms based largely, but not exclusively, on molecular (DNA sequence) data.

The tortoise and the hare II: relative utility of 21 noncoding chloroplast DNA sequences for phylogenetic analysis

2005-01-01

Joey Shaw , Edgar B. Lickey , John T. Beck +7 more

Chloroplast DNA sequences are a primary source of data for plant molecular systematic studies. A few key papers have provided the molecular systematics community with universal primer pairs for noncoding … Chloroplast DNA sequences are a primary source of data for plant molecular systematic studies. A few key papers have provided the molecular systematics community with universal primer pairs for noncoding regions that have dominated the field, namely trnL-trnF and trnK/matK. These two regions have provided adequate information to resolve species relationships in some taxa, but often provide little resolution at low taxonomic levels. To obtain better phylogenetic resolution, sequence data from these regions are often coupled with other sequence data. Choosing an appropriate cpDNA region for phylogenetic investigation is difficult because of the scarcity of information about the tempo of evolutionary rates among different noncoding cpDNA regions. The focus of this investigation was to determine whether there is any predictable rate heterogeneity among 21 noncoding cpDNA regions identified as phylogenetically useful at low levels. To test for rate heterogeneity among the different cpDNA regions, we used three species from each of 10 groups representing eight major phylogenetic lineages of phanerogams. The results of this study clearly show that a survey using as few as three representative taxa can be predictive of the amount of phylogenetic information offered by a cpDNA region and that rate heterogeneity exists among noncoding cpDNA regions.

Phylogenetics of Seed Plants: An Analysis of Nucleotide Sequences from the Plastid Gene rbcL

1993-01-01

Mark W. Chase , Pamela S. Soltis , Richard G. Olmstead +7 more

We present the results of two exploratory parsimony analyses of DNA sequences from 475 and 499 species of seed plants, respectively, representing all major taxonomic groups.The data are exclusively from … We present the results of two exploratory parsimony analyses of DNA sequences from 475 and 499 species of seed plants, respectively, representing all major taxonomic groups.The data are exclusively from the chloroplast gene rbcL, which codes for the large subunit of ribulose-1,5-bisphosphate carboxylase/oxygenase (RuBisCO or RuBPCase).We used two different state-transformation assumptions resulting in two sets of cladograms: (i) equal-weighting for the 499-taxon analysis; and (ii) a procedure that differentially weights transversions over transitions within characters and codon positions among characters for the 475-taxon analysis.The degree of congruence between these results and other molecular, as well as morphological, cladistic studies indicates that rbcL sequence variation contains historical evidence appropriate for phylogenetic analysis at this taxonomic level of sampling.Because the topologies presented are necessarily approximate and cannot be evaluated adequately for internal support, these results should be assessed from the perspective of their predictive value and used to direct future studies, both molecular and morphological.In both analyses, the three genera of Gnetales are placed together as the sister group of the flowering plants, and the anomalous aquatic Ceratophyllum (Ceratophyllaceae) is sister to all other flowering plants.Several major lineages identified correspond well with at least some recent taxonomic schemes for angiosperms, particularly those of Dahlgren and Thorne.The basalmost clades within the angiosperms are orders of the apparently polyphyletic subclass Magnoliidae sensu Cronquist.The most conspicuous feature of the topology is that the major division is not monocot versus dicot, but rather one correlated with general pollen type: uniaperturate versus triaperturate.The Dilleniidae and Hamamelidae are the only subclasses that are grossly polyphyletic; an examination of the latter is presented as an example of the use of these broad analyses to focus more restricted studies.A broadly circumscribed Rosidae is paraphyletic to Asteridae and Dilleniidae.Subclass Caryophyllidae is monophyletic and derived from within Rosidae in the 475-taxon analysis but is sister to a group composed of broadly delineated Asteridae and Rosidae in the 499-taxon study.

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TNT, a free program for phylogenetic analysis

2008-07-11

Pablo A. Goloboff , James S. Farris , Kevin C. Nixon

Abstract The main features of the phylogeny program TNT are discussed. Windows versions have a menu interface, while Macintosh and Linux versions are command‐driven. The program can analyze data sets … Abstract The main features of the phylogeny program TNT are discussed. Windows versions have a menu interface, while Macintosh and Linux versions are command‐driven. The program can analyze data sets with discrete (additive, non‐additive, step‐matrix) as well as continuous characters (evaluated with Farris optimization). Effective analysis of large data sets can be carried out in reasonable times, and a number of methods to help identifying wildcard taxa in the case of ambiguous data sets are implemented. A variety of methods for diagnosing trees and exploring character evolution is available in TNT, and publication‐quality tree‐diagrams can be saved as metafiles. Through the use of a number of native commands and a simple but powerful scripting language, TNT allows the user an enormous flexibility in phylogenetic analyses or simulations. © The Willi Hennig Society 2008.

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Dendroscope 3: An Interactive Tool for Rooted Phylogenetic Trees and Networks

2012-07-11

Daniel H. Huson , Céline Scornavacca

Dendroscope 3 is a new program for working with rooted phylogenetic trees and networks. It provides a number of methods for drawing and comparing rooted phylogenetic networks, and for computing … Dendroscope 3 is a new program for working with rooted phylogenetic trees and networks. It provides a number of methods for drawing and comparing rooted phylogenetic networks, and for computing them from rooted trees. The program can be used interactively or in command-line mode. The program is written in Java, use of the software is free, and installers for all 3 major operating systems can be downloaded from www.dendroscope.org. [Phylogenetic trees; phylogenetic networks; software.].

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Xylem Structure and the Ascent of Sap

2002-01-01

Melvin T. Tyree , Martin H. Zimmermann

An update of the Angiosperm Phylogeny Group classification for the orders and families of flowering plants: APG IV

2016-03-24

An update of the Angiosperm Phylogeny Group (APG) classification of the orders and families of angiosperms is presented. Several new orders are recognized: Boraginales, Dilleniales, Icacinales, Metteniusiales and Vahliales. This … An update of the Angiosperm Phylogeny Group (APG) classification of the orders and families of angiosperms is presented. Several new orders are recognized: Boraginales, Dilleniales, Icacinales, Metteniusiales and Vahliales. This brings the total number of orders and families recognized in the APG system to 64 and 416, respectively. We propose two additional informal major clades, superrosids and superasterids, that each comprise the additional orders that are included in the larger clades dominated by the rosids and asterids. Families that made up potentially monofamilial orders, Dasypogonaceae and Sabiaceae, are instead referred to Arecales and Proteales, respectively. Two parasitic families formerly of uncertain positions are now placed: Cynomoriaceae in Saxifragales and Apodanthaceae in Cucurbitales. Although there is evidence that some families recognized in APG III are not monophyletic, we make no changes in Dioscoreales and Santalales relative to APG III and leave some genera in Lamiales unplaced (e.g. Peltanthera). These changes in familial circumscription and recognition have all resulted from new results published since APG III, except for some changes simply due to nomenclatural issues, which include substituting Asphodelaceae for Xanthorrhoeaceae (Asparagales) and Francoaceae for Melianthaceae (Geraniales); however, in Francoaceae we also include Bersamaceae, Ledocarpaceae, Rhynchothecaceae and Vivianiaceae. Other changes to family limits are not drastic or numerous and are mostly focused on some members of the lamiids, especially the former Icacinaceae that have long been problematic with several genera moved to the formerly monogeneric Metteniusaceae, but minor changes in circumscription include Aristolochiaceae (now including Lactoridaceae and Hydnoraceae; Aristolochiales), Maundiaceae (removed from Juncaginaceae; Alismatales), Restionaceae (now re-including Anarthriaceae and Centrolepidaceae; Poales), Buxaceae (now including Haptanthaceae; Buxales), Peraceae (split from Euphorbiaceae; Malpighiales), recognition of Petenaeaceae (Huerteales), Kewaceae, Limeaceae, Macarthuriaceae and Microteaceae (all Caryophyllales), Petiveriaceae split from Phytolaccaceae (Caryophyllales), changes to the generic composition of Ixonanthaceae and Irvingiaceae (with transfer of Allantospermum from the former to the latter; Malpighiales), transfer of Pakaraimaea (formerly Dipterocarpaceae) to Cistaceae (Malvales), transfer of Borthwickia, Forchhammeria, Stixis and Tirania (formerly all Capparaceae) to Resedaceae (Brassicales), Nyssaceae split from Cornaceae (Cornales), Pteleocarpa moved to Gelsemiaceae (Gentianales), changes to the generic composition of Gesneriaceae (Sanango moved from Loganiaceae) and Orobanchaceae (now including Lindenbergiaceae and Rehmanniaceae) and recognition of Mazaceae distinct from Phrymaceae (all Lamiales).

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The frequency of polyploid speciation in vascular plants

2009-08-11

Troy E. Wood , Naoki Takebayashi , Michael S. Barker +3 more

Since its discovery in 1907, polyploidy has been recognized as an important phenomenon in vascular plants, and several lines of evidence indicate that most, if not all, plant species ultimately … Since its discovery in 1907, polyploidy has been recognized as an important phenomenon in vascular plants, and several lines of evidence indicate that most, if not all, plant species ultimately have a polyploid ancestry. However, previous estimates of the frequency of polyploid speciation suggest that the formation and establishment of neopolyploid species is rare. By combining information from the botanical community's vast cytogenetic and phylogenetic databases, we establish that 15% of angiosperm and 31% of fern speciation events are accompanied by ploidy increase. These frequency estimates are higher by a factor of four than earlier estimates and lead to a standing incidence of polyploid species within genera of 35% (n = 1,506). Despite this high incidence, we find no direct evidence that polyploid lines, once established, enjoy greater net species diversification. Thus, the widespread occurrence of polyploid taxa appears to result from the substantial contribution of polyploidy to cladogenesis, but not from subsequent increases in diversification rates of polyploid lines.

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Growing knowledge: an overview of Seed Plant diversity in Brazil

2015-01-01

Daniela C. Zappi , Fabiana Ranzato Filardi , Paula Leitman +7 more

Abstract An updated inventory of Brazilian seed plants is presented and offers important insights into the country's biodiversity. This work started in 2010, with the publication of the Plants and … Abstract An updated inventory of Brazilian seed plants is presented and offers important insights into the country's biodiversity. This work started in 2010, with the publication of the Plants and Fungi Catalogue, and has been updated since by more than 430 specialists working online. Brazil is home to 32,086 native Angiosperms and 23 native Gymnosperms, showing an increase of 3% in its species richness in relation to 2010. The Amazon Rainforest is the richest Brazilian biome for Gymnosperms, while the Atlantic Rainforest is the richest one for Angiosperms. There was a considerable increment in the number of species and endemism rates for biomes, except for the Amazon that showed a decrease of 2.5% of recorded endemics. However, well over half of Brazillian seed plant species (57.4%) is endemic to this territory. The proportion of life-forms varies among different biomes: trees are more expressive in the Amazon and Atlantic Rainforest biomes while herbs predominate in the Pampa, and lianas are more expressive in the Amazon, Atlantic Rainforest, and Pantanal. This compilation serves not only to quantify Brazilian biodiversity, but also to highlight areas where there information is lacking and to provide a framework for the challenge faced in conserving Brazil's unique and diverse flora.

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Pollen-Morphology and Plant Taxonomy: Angiosperms.

1953-08-01

H. Godwin , G. Erdtman

The Families and Genera of Vascular Plants

2005-05-01

Rudolf Schmid , K. Kubitzki , Joachim W. Kadereit

The timescale of early land plant evolution

2018-02-20

Jennifer L. Morris , Mark N. Puttick , James Clark +7 more

Significance Establishing the timescale of early land plant evolution is essential to testing hypotheses on the coevolution of land plants and Earth’s System. Here, we establish a timescale for early … Significance Establishing the timescale of early land plant evolution is essential to testing hypotheses on the coevolution of land plants and Earth’s System. Here, we establish a timescale for early land plant evolution that integrates over competing hypotheses on bryophyte−tracheophyte relationships. We estimate land plants to have emerged in a middle Cambrian–Early Ordovocian interval, and vascular plants to have emerged in the Late Ordovician−Silurian. This timescale implies an early establishment of terrestrial ecosystems by land plants that is in close accord with recent estimates for the origin of terrestrial animal lineages. Biogeochemical models that are constrained by the fossil record of early land plants, or attempt to explain their impact, must consider a much earlier, middle Cambrian–Early Ordovician, origin.

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An update of the Angiosperm Phylogeny Group classification for the orders and families of flowering plants: APG II

2003-04-01

An update of the Angiosperm Phylogeny Group classification for the orders and families of flowering plants : APG III

2009-01-01

Apg

PHYLIP-Phylogeny inference package (Version 3.2)

1989-01-01

Joe Felsenstein

Taxonomy of Vascular Plants

1952-01-01

George H. M. Lawrence

Taxonomy of vascular plants , Taxonomy of vascular plants , مرکز فناوری اطلاعات و اطلاع رسانی کشاورزی Taxonomy of vascular plants , Taxonomy of vascular plants , مرکز فناوری اطلاعات و اطلاع رسانی کشاورزی

Diversity and classification of flowering plants

1997-01-01

A. L. Takhtadzhi︠a︡n

The culmination of more than fifty years of research by the foremost living expert on plant classification, Diversity and Classification of Flowering Plants is an important contribution to the field … The culmination of more than fifty years of research by the foremost living expert on plant classification, Diversity and Classification of Flowering Plants is an important contribution to the field of plant taxonomy. In the last decade, the system of classifying plants has been thoroughly revised. Instead of describing every individual family, Takhtajan includes descriptions in keys to families, which he calls keys. The advantage of descriptive keys is that they give both the characteristic features of the families and their differences. The delimitation of families and orders drastically differs from the one accepted by the Englerian school and from the one accepted in Arthur Cronquist's system. Takhtajan favors the smaller, more natural families and orders, which are more coherent and better-defined, where characters are easily grasped, and which are more suitable for information retrieval and phylogenetic studies, including cladistic analysis (because it reduces polymorphic codings).

Angiosperm phylogeny inferred from 18S rDNA, rbcL, and atpB sequences

2000-08-01

Douglas E. Soltis , Pamela S. Soltis , Mark W. Chase +7 more

An update of the Angiosperm Phylogeny Group classification for the orders and families of flowering plants: APG III

2009-10-01

A revised and updated classification for the families of flowering plants is provided. Many recent studies have yielded increasingly detailed evidence for the positions of formerly unplaced families, resulting in … A revised and updated classification for the families of flowering plants is provided. Many recent studies have yielded increasingly detailed evidence for the positions of formerly unplaced families, resulting in a number of newly adopted orders, including Amborellales, Berberidopsidales, Bruniales, Buxales, Chloranthales, Escalloniales, Huerteales, Nymphaeales, Paracryphiales, Petrosaviales, Picramniales, Trochodendrales, Vitales and Zygophyllales. A number of previously unplaced genera and families are included here in orders, greatly reducing the number of unplaced taxa; these include Hydatellaceae (Nymphaeales), Haptanthaceae (Buxales), Peridiscaceae (Saxifragales), Huaceae (Oxalidales), Centroplacaceae and Rafflesiaceae (both Malpighiales), Aphloiaceae, Geissolomataceae and Strasburgeriaceae (all Crossosomatales), Picramniaceae (Picramniales), Dipentodontaceae and Gerrardinaceae (both Huerteales), Cytinaceae (Malvales), Balanophoraceae (Santalales), Mitrastemonaceae (Ericales) and Boraginaceae (now at least known to be a member of lamiid clade). Newly segregated families for genera previously understood to be in other APG-recognized families include Petermanniaceae (Liliales), Calophyllaceae (Malpighiales), Capparaceae and Cleomaceae (both Brassicales), Schoepfiaceae (Santalales), Anacampserotaceae, Limeaceae, Lophiocarpaceae, Montiaceae and Talinaceae (all Caryophyllales) and Linderniaceae and Thomandersiaceae (both Lamiales). Use of bracketed families is abandoned because of its unpopularity, and in most cases the broader circumscriptions are retained; these include Amaryllidaceae, Asparagaceace and Xanthorrheaceae (all Asparagales), Passifloraceae (Malpighiales), Primulaceae (Ericales) and several other smaller families. Separate papers in this same volume deal with a new linear order for APG, subfamilial names that can be used for more accurate communication in Amaryllidaceae s.l., Asparagaceace s.l. and Xanthorrheaceae s.l. (all Asparagales) and a formal supraordinal classification for the flowering plants.

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Morphoanatomical study of Neotropical Dorstenia (Moraceae) inflorescences reveal new insights and variation in late-diverging species

2025-06-25

Letícia Maria Parteka , Fernanda Mayara Nogueira , Jorge Ernesto de Araújo Mariath +2 more | Botanical Journal of the Linnean Society

Abstract Dorstenia species are characterized by their distinctive inflorescence, the coenanthium, a fleshy discoid receptacle that contains staminate or pistillate flowers. Despite being of great importance due to the endangered … Abstract Dorstenia species are characterized by their distinctive inflorescence, the coenanthium, a fleshy discoid receptacle that contains staminate or pistillate flowers. Despite being of great importance due to the endangered status of some Dorstenia, few species have been extensively studied, leaving many aspects of their reproductive biology and evolutionary relationships unclear. This study aimed to expand our understanding of Neotropical Dorstenia species, focusing on less-explored aspects. Using light and scanning electron microscopy, we analysed the inflorescences of seven species across all Neotropical sections and conducted ancestral character reconstruction to verify the phylogenetical significance of specific traits. Results showed that aerenchyma development in pistillate flowers may play a role in fruit dispersal through ballistic ejection. Additionally, the secretory structures within the coenanthium, both external and internal, probably serve the dual purpose of attracting pollinators while also providing protection against potential damage from them, although the exact pollination syndrome remains uncertain due to conflicting data. The reproductive characteristics of the Neotropical Dorstenia differ among the three sections, with the late-diverging Emygdioa members exhibiting dioecious coenanthia, implying a transition from mixed-monoecious to dioecious inflorescences in Dorstenia.

Biogeography, Ecoclines and Ecotypes of Betonica Officinalis (Lamiaceae)

2025-06-24

P.-E. Persson , Mikael Hedrén , Arne Thell | Acta Botanica Hungarica

The distribution of betony ( Betonica officinalis L.) is mapped using 390 herbarium specimens from 31 countries (28 European, 2 African and 1 Asian), representing ca 200 localities. Populations from … The distribution of betony ( Betonica officinalis L.) is mapped using 390 herbarium specimens from 31 countries (28 European, 2 African and 1 Asian), representing ca 200 localities. Populations from 19 of these localities were used in seed cultivation experiments. Characters that correlate with their biogeography were searched for both in the herbarium material and in the cultivated material. Three genetically determined characters form ecoclines: hairiness of the sepals increases gradually from the west to the east in the distribution area, flowering begins in the northwest, is gradually later towards the south in Europe, and a winter green habit is increasingly pronounced closer to Atlantic environments. The cultured material was clearly divided into three ecotypes, a dwarfy ecotype from dry areas in Yorkshire, England, a prostrate ecotype from the Atlantic coast in France, and the common ecotype characterized by tall growth and large leaves. These ecotypes were also identified in herbaria.

Eugenia venteri (sect. Jossinia, Myrtaceae): a new flagelliflorous tree from the rainforest of Manus Island, Papua New Guinea

2025-06-24

Yee Wen Low , László Csiba , Arison Arihafa +1 more | Kew Bulletin

Summary Flagelliflory, a rare form of cauliflory, refers to plants with long whip-like branches, or flagella, on the main trunk that bear inflorescences. In extreme cases, the flagella can either … Summary Flagelliflory, a rare form of cauliflory, refers to plants with long whip-like branches, or flagella, on the main trunk that bear inflorescences. In extreme cases, the flagella can either be slightly buried in soil or creep above it and extend up to metres away from the trunk. The new Eugenia species described here, from Manus Island, represents the only Eugenia taxon known thus far to exhibit flagelliflory and the first species from Papua New Guinea to do so. Morphological characteristics of the new species were observed from herbarium collections and supplemented with field notes provided by the collectors. A risk of extinction assessment of the new species is provided, alongside preliminary phylogenetic placement, a line drawing, field images and a distribution map.

Leaf–Soil Carbon, Nitrogen, and Phosphorus Ecological Stoichiometry and Adaptation in Karst Plant Communities

2025-06-24

Yang Wang , Zuhong Fan , Tian Tian +2 more | Sustainability

In order to elucidate the factors regulating nutrient dynamics in plant–soil interactions across various latitudes within the karst climax community, this study focused on the karst forest climax community in … In order to elucidate the factors regulating nutrient dynamics in plant–soil interactions across various latitudes within the karst climax community, this study focused on the karst forest climax community in Guizhou Province, Southwest China. We analyzed and compared the differences in carbon, nitrogen, and phosphorus content, as well as stoichiometry, in plant leaves and soils under various growing conditions. Additionally, redundancy analyses were conducted to investigate the stoichiometric correlations between plants and soil. The research findings indicate the following: (1) Leaf carbon content (LCC) and the carbon-to-nitrogen ratio (LCN) exhibit significant differences across various latitudes, with the lowest values observed in high-latitude regions. (2) Soil organic carbon (SOC) and the carbon-to-nitrogen ratio (SCN) also show significant variations across latitudes, with the lowest concentrations found in high-latitude regions and the highest in low-latitude regions. (3) The variability in leaf nutrient element ratios among karst region climax communities is greatest in low-latitude areas. This study found that the carbon content (LCC), nitrogen content (LNC), and carbon-to-nitrogen ratio (LCN) of leaves in karst climax community plants decrease as latitude increases. This suggests that plants regulate the nutrient utilization efficiency of carbon content (LCC), nitrogen content (LNC), and phosphorus content (LPC) in their leaves to maintain the nutrients necessary for their growth and development along the latitudinal gradient. The sensitivity of soil organic carbon (SOC), carbon-to-nitrogen (SCN), and carbon-to-phosphorus (SCP) ratios to latitudinal changes were particularly pronounced in the karst climax community. Additionally, plant leaf stoichiometry was significantly influenced by soil phosphorus content (SPC) in mid- and high-latitude regions, while factors other than soil nitrogen content (SNC) had a more substantial impact on plant leaf stoichiometry in low-latitude areas. The findings of this study are highly significant for guiding nutrient management in karst forest ecosystems and for the restoration of degraded karst forest vegetation.

REGENERAÇÃO NATURAL EM UMA ÁREA DE VEGETAÇÃO DE CAATINGA MANEJADA NA REGIÃO DE UPANEMA/RN

2025-06-24

Geovana Gomes de Sousa , Allyson Rocha Alves , Alan Cauê de Holanda +3 more | Nativa

Natural regeneration is essential for the conservation and evolution of species in ecosystems, and it is essential to study this process in managed areas to understand the effects of forestry … Natural regeneration is essential for the conservation and evolution of species in ecosystems, and it is essential to study this process in managed areas to understand the effects of forestry exploitation. In this sense, this study evaluated the floristic composition and phytosociological structure of the regenerating component in a managed Caatinga area, five years after the first cut, in the municipality of Upanema, RN. Data were collected in the first Annual Production Unit (UPA) of the Forest Management Plan, with 10 sampling units of 25m2 (5m x 5m) to evaluate the regenerative component. The species found were identified in the field by dendromorphological characteristics, and then taxonomic confirmation was carried out in the herbarium. The phytosociological parameters evaluated were: Absolute and relative frequency, Absolute and relative density and Natural regeneration per species as well as the Shannon-Weaver diversity indices and Pielou's evenness. The species Manihot glaziovi, Croton blanchetianus and Bauhinia forficata stood out as the most representative and with high rates of natural regeneration. The regenerative component appears in the initial phase of secondary succession, with satisfactory development due to sustainable forest management. The results demonstrate compatible patterns of diversity (H'=1.35), distribution (J=0.61) and natural regeneration in Caatinga areas.

Longevity in plants impacts phylogenetic and population dynamics

2025-06-24

Stephen A. Smith , James B. Pease , Tom Carruthers +7 more | bioRxiv (Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory)

Summary Many long-lived plant species exhibit notable patterns in phylogenies, such as short molecular branch lengths and high gene-tree conflict. However, it is not clear what biological properties of long-lived … Summary Many long-lived plant species exhibit notable patterns in phylogenies, such as short molecular branch lengths and high gene-tree conflict. However, it is not clear what biological properties of long-lived plant species or concomitant processes acting within these lineages generate these patterns. To explore this mystery, we implemented an agent-based model and conducted simulations to investigate how longevity affects molecular evolution and population dynamics. Through these simulations, we demonstrated that the patterns exhibited in empirical datasets for long-lived species can be explained by their lifespan and overlapping generations. We also show that somatic mutations can exacerbate these patterns, although evidence for substantive rates in empirical systems high enough to impact phylogenetic patterns is scarce. We discuss several empirical datasets containing life history shifts that exhibit diverse phylogenomic patterns. The variation produced through different parameterizations of our simulations reflects the diversity of patterns found in empirical datasets. Our results have broad implications for phylogenomic patterns and population genetics in general, as well as for specifically explaining patterns of evolution in long-lived lineages.

Aphelandra bracteopectinata (Acanthaceae): A beautiful new species from northwestern Ecuador

2025-06-23

Xavier Cornejo , Dieter C. Wasshausen , Brandon E. Cohen | Journal of the Botanical Research Institute of Texas

Aphelandra bracteopectinata Cornejo, Wassh., & Cohen from the wet montane forests of northwestern Ecuador is described as new and illustrated with photographs. It is an attractive shrub with yellow corollas … Aphelandra bracteopectinata Cornejo, Wassh., & Cohen from the wet montane forests of northwestern Ecuador is described as new and illustrated with photographs. It is an attractive shrub with yellow corollas and pectinate floral bracts.

A simple, PCR-based method for the identification of Triodanis (Campanulaceae) species and their hybrids

2025-06-23

Alyssa Wu Zhan , J Linhart , Kenneth E. McConnell +3 more | Journal of the Botanical Research Institute of Texas

Triodanis Raf. is a genus of Campanulaceae with some cryptic species that are known to hybridize. Therefore, non-morphological identification methods are instrumental in differentiating species and their interspecific hybrids. Primers … Triodanis Raf. is a genus of Campanulaceae with some cryptic species that are known to hybridize. Therefore, non-morphological identification methods are instrumental in differentiating species and their interspecific hybrids. Primers were developed from the ITS and ETS regions for 4 sympatric species present in North America to assess their utility in the identification of species, and natural and simulated hybrids by multiplex PCR amplification and gel electrophoresis. We found that these multiplexed PCRs were highly accurate in the identification of the 4 study species as well as natural hybrids. Simulated hybrids (in vitro combinations of total DNA extracts) to confirm co-amplification in multiplexed PCR also showed high rates of amplification but were sensitive to dosage effects of parental DNA. Overall, this study demonstrates a promising method to cheaply and quickly identify large numbers of individuals of most species of Triodanis and could be applied to more species, given sufficient differentiation in target DNA locus and species-specific constancy of targeted variation.

Cenozoic geoclimatic changes drove the evolutionary dynamics of floristic endemism on the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau

2025-06-23

Guan‐Long Cao , Xiaoqian Li , Jun Zhang +7 more | Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences

The Qinghai-Tibet Plateau (QTP) harbors extraordinarily high levels of biodiversity and endemism. The region is warming at a rate twice the global average, yet the evolutionary dynamics of its unique … The Qinghai-Tibet Plateau (QTP) harbors extraordinarily high levels of biodiversity and endemism. The region is warming at a rate twice the global average, yet the evolutionary dynamics of its unique biota are poorly understood. Here, we used the endemic land plant genera of the QTP to investigate how its floristic endemism was shaped over time by Cenozoic geoclimatic changes. We first clarified that the QTP hosts 82 endemic land plant genera; we found that the origins of these endemic genera were most likely driven by ecological niche and elevation differentiation, caused by the uplift of the QTP and associated climate change. By sampling 37 land plant clades that together encompass 1,740 species, covering all 82 endemic genera, we show that QTP floristic endemism had emerged by the Early Eocene. Furthermore, the unique biodiversity of the QTP comprises a mix of indigenous elements and immigrants. Among the three subregions of the QTP (Plateau Platform, Himalaya, and the Hengduan Mountains), the processes associated with floristic endemism are asynchronous, reflecting different geoclimatic events with the Miocene as a particularly critical period. The relative contributions of in situ speciation and immigration to the unique biodiversity of the three subregions are also markedly different; in situ speciation dominated in the Hengduan Mountains, which hosts the oldest endemic components of the flora and has served as an important "pump" and "sink" of unique biodiversity. These findings provide insights into how past geoclimatic events may have shaped floristic endemism on the QTP and also have important conservation implications.

Using taxonomic tools to investigate palynological record of fossil plants from Pakistan

2025-06-23

Shabir Ahmad , Mushtaq Ahmad , Rozina Rozina +7 more | Genetic Resources and Crop Evolution

Extendiendo las redes, una especie nueva de Dictyanthus (Apocynaceae, Asclepiadoideae) para México

2025-06-21

Leonardo O. Alvarado‐Cárdenas | Botanical Sciences

Antecedentes: Dictyanthus es un género de Gonolobinae con 19 especies distribuidas desde México hasta Nicaragua. El trabajo de revisión de Apocynaceae de Guerrero ubicó unas plantas que no se ajustaban … Antecedentes: Dictyanthus es un género de Gonolobinae con 19 especies distribuidas desde México hasta Nicaragua. El trabajo de revisión de Apocynaceae de Guerrero ubicó unas plantas que no se ajustaban a la descripción de las especies aceptadas del género. Preguntas: ¿Pertenecen los especímenes del Estado de México, Guerrero y Morelos a una nueva especie? ¿Cómo se distingue de Dictyanthus reticulatus? Especie estudiada: Dictyanthus sophiae. Sitio y fechas de estudio: Estado de México, Guerrero, Morelos, 2025. Métodos: Se estudiaron los especímenes de herbario para realizar la descripción morfológica y se comparó con taxones similares. Se evaluó el estado de conservación del nuevo taxón, siguiendo los criterios de la Lista Roja de la UICN. Se realizó una actualización de la descripción para D. reticulatus, así como un mapa de distribución de los taxones tratados. Resultados: Dictyanthus sophiae se propone como nueva especie por su corola con reticulación pardo verdosa a parda, un ginostegio y corona ginostegial rosada. Por el momento, el nuevo taxón está categorizado como En peligro (En). Conclusiones: Con esta nueva especie, Dictyanthus alcanza las 20 especies y se incrementa a 19 las especies del género para México.

Synopsis of Mesoamerican Freziera (Pentaphylacaceae, Ericales)

2025-06-21

Daniel Santamaría‐Aguilar , Quírico Jiménez , Laura P. Lagomarsino +1 more | Kew Bulletin

Summary A synopsis of Freziera is presented for Mesoamerica. We document 14 species of Freziera for Mesoamerica, 10 of which are endemic to the region. We also describe three new … Summary A synopsis of Freziera is presented for Mesoamerica. We document 14 species of Freziera for Mesoamerica, 10 of which are endemic to the region. We also describe three new species: F. aguilarii D.Santam., F. dauphinii D.Santam., and F. jefensis D.Santam. that we assess as Vulnerable to extinction (CR), Near Threatened (NT), and Endangered (E) respectively. The newly described species had previously been considered to be conspecific to F. calophylla , or F. grisebachii. We also resurrect F. lancifolia , which has previously been treated as a synonym of F. grisebachii , but which we consider to be morphologically distinct. In addition, we designate a lectotype for F. guatemalensis . Distinctive characters, distribution, habitat, phenology, and illustrations are provided. We also provide a summary of the morphology, natural history, common names, and uses for Freziera species in Mesoamerica.

Whole genome sequencing of Neolamarckia macrophylla (Roxb.) Bosser and Neolamarckia cadamba (Roxb.) Bosser from Indonesia: a vital resource for completing chloroplast genomes and mining microsatellite markers

2025-06-20

Fifi Gus Dwiyanti , Irsyad Kamal , Rahadian Pratama +5 more | Frontiers in Plant Science

The Plant Macro-fossil Evidence

2025-06-19

L. Lodwick | Oxbow Books

Reinstatement of Memecylon elegantulum (Melastomataceae) and recircumscription of Memecylon rostratum, two species endemic to Sri Lanka

2025-06-19

Amila Perera , Himesh Jayasinghe , Bhathiya Gopallawa +3 more | PhytoKeys

Memecylon elegantulum Thwaites, a heterotypic synonym of M. rostratum Thwaites, is re-instated based on recent collections and field observations. The two species differ mainly in their habit, inflorescence structure, floral … Memecylon elegantulum Thwaites, a heterotypic synonym of M. rostratum Thwaites, is re-instated based on recent collections and field observations. The two species differ mainly in their habit, inflorescence structure, floral morphology and lamina morphology. A lectotype and an epitype are designated for Memecylon elegantulum , and a lectotype designated for M. rostratum . Both species are confined to the mixed dipterocarp rainforests of Sri Lanka’s perhumid south-western ‘wet zone’. Memecylon elegantulum appears to be restricted to a relatively small range in Ratnapura district, while M. rostratum has a wider distribution in wet zone.

Phylogeny, structural patterns, and polymorphisms in Dyckia spp. from the Espinhaço mountain range based on complete chloroplast genome

2025-06-19

João Victor Da Silva Rabelo-Araujo , Ana Flávia Francisconi , Caroline Bertocco Garcia +6 more | Frontiers in Plant Science

Dyckia spp. are xeromorphic bromeliads, with diversity centered in the ferruginous rocky outcrops of the Espinhaço mountain Range in Brazilian tropical savana. Due to their recent radiation – during the … Dyckia spp. are xeromorphic bromeliads, with diversity centered in the ferruginous rocky outcrops of the Espinhaço mountain Range in Brazilian tropical savana. Due to their recent radiation – during the Pliocene – along with their vast phenotypic plasticity and the limited herbarium records, many species in the genus present challenges for correct identification and the development of robust conservation strategies. We sequenced the complete chloroplast genome of six rare Dyckia species in an effort to identify hotspots of diversity that could serve as molecular markers capable of distinguishing species and elucidating phylogenetic relationships within the genus. The plastome sizes of the species ranged from 159,689 bp to 159,264 bp, and the GC content was highly consistent across all species, varying narrowly between 37.2% to 37.3%. Despite the high structural similarity, polymorphism analyses identified three regions of high polymorphic diversity—the clpP1 and psa 1 genes, and the intergenic spacer region between trnT and the trnL — that may serve as molecular markers within the genus. Additionally, we detected a high number of SSRs (637), dispersed repeats (208), SNPs (1035), and indels (823) among the species compared to other bromeliads. Phylogenetic analyses using whole plastid genomes showed low variability among species, associating them with their geographic distribution. These results not only highlight the structural variability of the Dyckia plastid genome but also provide new molecular tools for the identification of related species, enhancing the development of conservation protocols for these bromeliads.

Fossil wood of Terminalioxylon (Combretaceae) from the Late Miocene of Southeastern Pakistan: biogeographic and paleoecological implications

2025-06-19

I. Ullah , Noorulain Soomro , Shufeng Li +2 more | IAWA Journal

Summary Fossil wood from the Late Miocene of Manchar Formation in the Lower Indus Basin, the Sindh Province, Pakistan has been attributed to Terminalioxylon sp. (cf. T. eo-olivari Harsh, Sharma … Summary Fossil wood from the Late Miocene of Manchar Formation in the Lower Indus Basin, the Sindh Province, Pakistan has been attributed to Terminalioxylon sp. (cf. T. eo-olivari Harsh, Sharma & Suthar) (Combretaceae). This is the first fossil evidence of this family from the Manchar Formation, exposed in the Lower Indus Basin. Terminalioxylon sp. (cf. T. eo-olivari ) is characterised by the combination of the lack of growth rings, small to large intervessel pits, abundant aliform and aliform-confluent axial parenchyma, the lack of septate fibres, exclusively uniseriate rays, and the occurrence of prismatic crystals in ray cells. The mesomorphic wood traits, including vessels (75–173 μm in tangential diameter, 6.4–7.2 per mm 2 ) and abundant axial parenchyma, suggest that T . sp. (cf. T. eo-olivari ) might be a large tropical or subtropical forest tree species. This fossil wood species provides new evidence for the forest vegetation in what is now Sindh Province during the Late Miocene. Forests predated the expansion of grassland, which occurred about 8 Mya in this region, due to global cooling and local aridification after the Middle Miocene Climatic Optimum.

Ficha de Characidium nambiquara

2025-06-18

Alberto Akama , Alexandre Pucci Hercos , André Luiz Netto Ferreira +7 more | Datasets - Sistema SALVE - ICMBio

Two new species of Dyssochroma (Solandreae, Solanaceae) and an updated identification key to the genus

2025-06-18

GABRIEL BARROS DA SILVA , Rodrigo José Araújo de Jesus , Leandro Lacerda Giacomin +3 more | Phytotaxa

Dyssochroma is a small genus of Solanaceae endemic to Brazil, previously known to include three species occurring in the Atlantic Forest domain. Here, we describe two new species of the … Dyssochroma is a small genus of Solanaceae endemic to Brazil, previously known to include three species occurring in the Atlantic Forest domain. Here, we describe two new species of the genus: D. caatingae, from the Caatinga domain in Pernambuco state, and D. jardimii, from the Atlantic Forest domain of Bahia state. The two new species are characterized by a pubescent indumentum in the young branches, calyces, and corollas, with multicellular non-glandular trichomes, whereas their congeners are glabrous or glabrescent, with sparse, unicellular, non-glandular trichomes. Dyssochroma caatingae has a variety of non-glandular trichomes, including simple and branched, ovate leaf blades, and ovary 5–6 × 6 mm. Diagnostic traits of D. jardimii include leaves with revolute margins and trichomes concentrated along the midvein, and green corollas with purplish to brownish stripes. We provide detailed descriptions, illustrations, field photographs, a distribution map, and taxonomic notes for both new species. This study increases the number of recognized species in Dyssochroma from three to five. Additionally, we present an identification key to distinguish them.

Fabaceous macro fossils from Siwalik forel and basin of Mandi district, Himachal Pradesh, India and their phytogeographic and climatic implications

2025-06-18

Mahesh Prasad , Alok Alok , Shailesh Mani Pandey +1 more | Phytomorphology Phytomorphology An International Journal of Plant Sciences

Wernham's and Sprague's Manettia (Rubiaceae) types

2025-06-18

Joseph H. Kirkbride , John H. Wiersema | Taxon

Abstract In the first decades of the twentieth century, Herbert Fuller Wernham and Thomas Archibald Sprague were both interested in the genus Manettia (Rubiaceae) and between them published 44 new … Abstract In the first decades of the twentieth century, Herbert Fuller Wernham and Thomas Archibald Sprague were both interested in the genus Manettia (Rubiaceae) and between them published 44 new Manettia species names, all but two of these in three publications. Wernham's principal publication was divided into two parts, the first third appearing in 1918 and the last two thirds in 1919, so most of his 34 new names appeared in 1918 and require typification. Sprague's 10 new species names and one resurrected specific name appeared in three publications in 1904 and 1905. The typifications of their new names are clarified, and any new typifications needed are made.

Tibouchina triprovincialis, a new species of Melastomataceae from the Southwestern Amazonian grasslands

2025-06-18

Renato Goldenberg , Narcísio C. Bigio , Ingrid Mendes‐Silva +4 more | Phytotaxa

Tibouchina triprovincialis is a new species collected in the Brazilian states of Amazonas, Mato Grosso, and Rondônia. All gatherings from Amazonas and Rondônia come from the “Parque Nacional dos Campos … Tibouchina triprovincialis is a new species collected in the Brazilian states of Amazonas, Mato Grosso, and Rondônia. All gatherings from Amazonas and Rondônia come from the “Parque Nacional dos Campos Amazônicos”, while the single gathering outside it comes from northwestern Mato Grosso. Dense and extensive populations of this small shrub occur in “hyperseasonal savannas”, i.e. savannic enclaves in the middle of the Amazonian rainforest, with a thick herbaceous layer and very few shrubs or trees, growing on poorly drained soils. Tibouchina triprovincialis differs from both T. aspera and T. spruceana by the smaller leaves, with shorter petioles, 0.6–1.5 mm long (vs. 3–10 mm in T. spruceana, 2–10 mm in T. aspera) and blades 5–11 mm long (vs. 20–50 mm in T. spruceana, 20–80 in T. aspera), the abaxial surface densely covered with broad scales that conceal the surfaces of veins and the actual surfaces between the veins (vs. moderately covered with slender scales or trichomes that do not conceal the surfaces beneath, on both the veins and the actual surfaces between the veins). As for extinction risk, we suggest that T. triprovincialis should be regarded as “Least Concern” (LC).

Evolutionary relationships in Santalales inferred using target capture with Angiosperms353, focusing on Australasian Santalaceae sensu lato

2025-06-17

Benjamin M. Anderson , M.C. Edlund , Shelley James +5 more | Australian Systematic Botany

The angiosperm order Santalales comprises more than 2500 species, most of which are hemi- or holoparasitic on other plants, and derive water and nutrients via specialised structures that attach to … The angiosperm order Santalales comprises more than 2500 species, most of which are hemi- or holoparasitic on other plants, and derive water and nutrients via specialised structures that attach to host roots or stems. The parasitic lifestyle has affected the morphology and genomes of these plants, and classification of the order has been difficult, with outstanding questions about membership of and relationships between families in the order. We chose to focus on improving phylogenetic sampling in the broadly circumscribed Santalaceae sens. lat., with emphasis on Australasian members of Amphorogynaceae and Viscaceae as part of the Genomics for Australian Plants Initiative. We used target capture with the Angiosperms353 bait set to generate a dataset of 318 nuclear loci × 195 samples, including publicly available data from other Santalales families. Phylogenetic inferences using maximum likelihood concatenation and a summary coalescent approach were largely congruent and resolved relationships between most families, agreeing with much of the previous work on the order. Some relationships that have been difficult to resolve remained so, such as branching order among some families in Olacaceae sens. lat. and Santalaceae sens. lat. Denser sampling in Amphorogynaceae and Viscaceae provided new insights into species-level relationships in genera such as Leptomeria and Choretrum, and allowed testing of recent phylogenetic work in Korthalsella. Our new phylogenetic hypothesis is consistent with one origin of root hemiparasitism, two origins of holoparasitism and five origins of aerial parasitism in the order. Although Angiosperms353 was successful, some phylogenetic bias in gene recovery suggests that future studies may benefit from more specific baits and deeper sequencing, especially for Viscaceae.

Chloroplast capture creates cryptic lineages with differential geographic patterns in Arctostaphylos uva-ursi (Ericaceae)

2025-06-17

Kayla M. Sweeten , V. Thomas Parker | Botany

Arctostaphylos uva-ursi inhabits circumboreal, alpine, and immediate coastal habitats while the center of diversity of Arctostaphylos is largely restricted to Mediterranean climates of the California Floristic Province. To discover its … Arctostaphylos uva-ursi inhabits circumboreal, alpine, and immediate coastal habitats while the center of diversity of Arctostaphylos is largely restricted to Mediterranean climates of the California Floristic Province. To discover its relationship to other Arctostaphylos species and to determine if patterns of variation exist across its circumboreal range, we sampled A. uva-ursi extensively and sequenced ITS and a chloroplast locus, rpl32-trnL. In the cpDNA tree and haplotype network, A. uva-ursi samples appear within two distinct lineages corresponding with different, broad geographic regions, suggesting that one lineage originated via chloroplast capture. Thus, A. uva-ursi contains a phylogenetically typical lineage and a cryptic, chloroplast captured lineage. Both lineages are widespread, but the lineage with the captured chloroplast is principally on the west coast of North America and dominates our collections from Europe, while the other lineage dominates eastern and northern North America, with some samples in Europe as well. The dominance of the west coast lineage in Europe suggests Beringia as a principal, but not exclusive dispersal path. Reproduction between these two lineages may be responsible for the tetraploid populations found throughout the distribution of the species.

Ficha de Triportheus pictus

2025-06-16

André Luiz Henriques Esguícero , André Luiz Netto Ferreira , Bruno Francelino de Melo +7 more | Datasets - Sistema SALVE - ICMBio

A new early Miocene fossil forest of the Galatian Volcanic Province (Turkey) and its evaluation in respect of palaeoclimatology

2025-06-16

Ünal Akkemık | Review of Palaeobotany and Palynology

A critically endangered new species of Croton section Barhamia (Euphorbiaceae) from the Cerrado hotspot, Brazil

2025-06-16

Rodolfo Carneiro Sodré , Amanda da Paixão Noronha Pereira , Thainara Policarpo Mendes +2 more | Phytotaxa

A new species of Croton endemic to the Cerrado hotspot (Brazil) is here described and illustrated. Croton rizzoi is assigned to section Barhamia subsect. Medea due to its foliage not … A new species of Croton endemic to the Cerrado hotspot (Brazil) is here described and illustrated. Croton rizzoi is assigned to section Barhamia subsect. Medea due to its foliage not viscid, entire leaf margins, pinnate venation, glandular stipules and sepals of pistillate flowers. The new species is most closely related to C. arirambae from the Northern region of Brazil, but differs by having stipules with stipitate-capitate glands with subglobose or ovoid secretory portion, elongate thyrses (up to 11 cm long), anthers 1.4–1.7 mm long, with papillose surface and 2-fid styles. Croton rizzoi has its geographic distributions, morphological relationships, phenology conservation status, and systematic position presented.

A new species of Gaylussacia (Ericaceae) from the Espinhaço Range, southeastern Brazil

2025-06-16

Gerson Oliveira Romão , ARIADNE DE ARAÚJO SAMPAIO , Reyjane P. Oliveira +1 more | Phytotaxa

As a result of a taxonomic survey of Gaylussacia (Ericaceae) in Brazil, a new species, Gaylussacia itambensis, is herein described and illustrated. The species is restricted to campos rupestres, from … As a result of a taxonomic survey of Gaylussacia (Ericaceae) in Brazil, a new species, Gaylussacia itambensis, is herein described and illustrated. The species is restricted to campos rupestres, from the Pico do Itambé, Espinhaço Range, Minas Gerais state, Brazil and characterized by mature defoliated branches, with persistent cataphylls only on the axillary buds, and leaves with a distinctly revolute margin. A description, an illustration, and commentary on geographic distribution, ecology, phenology and conservation status of the new species are provided. The new species is proposed as Critically Endangered in accordance with IUCN categories and criteria.

Preliminary notes on Justicia (Acanthaceae) in Peru

2025-06-16

Rosa Villanueva-Espinoza , Yunfei Deng , Robert W. Scotland +1 more | PhytoKeys

Justicia L. is the most species-rich genus of Acanthaceae in Peru and is here accepted in its broader traditional circumscription. The present paper marks a preliminary step towards a complete … Justicia L. is the most species-rich genus of Acanthaceae in Peru and is here accepted in its broader traditional circumscription. The present paper marks a preliminary step towards a complete revision of the genus in Peru. Taxonomic notes and full synonymy are provided for 45 species including twenty-one new species, all apparently endemic to Peru: Justicia angustituba J.R.I.Wood & R.Villanueva, J. baguensis J.R.I.Wood & R.Villanueva, J. bambusiformis J.R.I.Wood & R.Villanueva, J. chamaecaulis J.R.I.Wood & R.Villanueva, J. cajamarcensis R. Villanueva & J.R.I.Wood, J. discolor J.R.I.Wood & R.Villanueva, J. falcifolia J.R.I.Wood & R.Villanueva, J. huallagensis R.Villanueva & J.R.I.Wood, J. hyalina J.R.I.Wood & R. Villanueva, J. lactiflora J.R.I.Wood & R.Villanueva, J. longibracteata J.R.I.Wood & R.Villanueva, J. oppositiflora R.Villanueva & J.R.I.Wood, J. oxapampensis R. Villanueva & J.R.I.Wood, J. rojasiae R.Villanueva & J,R.I.Wood, J. saccata R.Villanueva & J.R.I.Wood, J. sagasteguii J.R.I.Wood & R.Villanueva, J. schunkei J.R.I.Wood & R. Villanueva, J. spathuliformis R.Villanueva & J.R.I.Wood, J. tumbesiana R.Villanueva & J.R.I.Wood, J. valenzuelae J.R.I.Wood & R.Villanueva and J. werffii J.R.I.Wood & R.Villanueva. New subspecies, subsp. machupicchuensis J.R.I.Wood & R.Villanueva of J. alpina Lindau and subsp. filisepala J.R.I.Wood & R.Villanueva of J. discolor are described. The genus Tessmanniacanthus Mildbr. is united with Justicia , the only species in the genus, T. chlamydocardioides Mildbr. being treated as Justicia chlamydocardioides (Mildbr.) R.Villanueva & J.R.I.Wood. Justicia loxensis Wassh., J. poeppigiana (Nees) Lindau, J. sessilifolia (Lindau) Wassh., J. soukupii (Standl. & F.A. Barkley) V.A.W.Graham and J. tenuistachys (Rusby) Wassh. & J.R.I.Wood are treated as synonyms respectively of J. chimboracensis Wassh., J. secundiflora (Ruiz & Pav.) Vahl, J. alpina Lindau, J. radicans Vahl and J. tenuiflora Ruiz & Pav. Fourteen names are lectotypified. The paper is copiously illustrated with line drawings, photographs and pollen images. Distribution maps supplement the information on ecology and distribution provided for all species discussed.

Phylogenetic insights into Indian Eugenia emphasizing the resolution of the position of the monotypic genus Meteoromyrtus (Myrtaceae)

2025-06-16

Akanksha Saxena , Devanathan Krishnamoorthy , Ettickal Sukumaran Kumar +7 more | Botanical Journal of the Linnean Society

Abstract The Paleotropical diversity of the predominantly Neotropical genus Eugenia is dispersed among different continental fragments with India’s Southern Western Ghats harbouring several under-surveyed endemic species. Groups working on Eugenia … Abstract The Paleotropical diversity of the predominantly Neotropical genus Eugenia is dispersed among different continental fragments with India’s Southern Western Ghats harbouring several under-surveyed endemic species. Groups working on Eugenia have previously highlighted the need to include these species in broader phylogenetic assessments. The present study attempts to understand the phylogenetic affinities of Indian species with other Paleotropical species, the position and support of the Eugenia sect. Jossinia and the position of Meteoromyrtus wynaadensis in context with Indian species to which this controversial genus is most closely related to give a final mandate over its generic status. Maximum parsimony and Bayesian inference approaches have been used to interpret the species interrelationships. This study showed that both chloroplast and nuclear markers in combination helped in better elucidation of the phylogenetic relationships of the species than single markers. Our analyses also provided a strongly supported Indian clade within the Eugenia sect. Jossinia and reinforced the relegation of the generic status of Meteoromyrtus. Indian Eugenia species form a highly supported clade with its members showing highest affinities with the representatives from East Africa, Mascarene Islands, and Australian species. Our results further support for a Paleotropical clade within this predominantly Neotropical genus. We echo the placement of M. wynaadensis within Eugenia (now Eugenia wynadensis) with high support in relation to other endemic Indian Eugenia species, thus providing a robust testament for merging this erstwhile monotypic genus.

The Crucial Role of Plant Taxonomy in Ensuring the Biodiversity Sustainability: Insights from the Pharmaceutically Significant Genus Paris (Melanthiaceae)

2025-06-16

Yunheng Ji , Zhiwei Yang , Xinqi Zhang +1 more | Taxonomy

Taxonomy, primarily focused on systematically exploring, documenting, and characterizing global or regional biodiversity, represents a fundamental scientific discipline for biodiversity conservation and sustainability. However, it has encountered significant developmental constraints … Taxonomy, primarily focused on systematically exploring, documenting, and characterizing global or regional biodiversity, represents a fundamental scientific discipline for biodiversity conservation and sustainability. However, it has encountered significant developmental constraints and academic marginalization in recent decades, resulting in a notable decline in proficient taxonomists as well as substantial gaps in taxonomic knowledge. In order to call for widespread attention and recognition of the increasing demands to revitalize and advance taxonomy, this article presents a comprehensive review that emphasizes the detrimental impacts of taxonomic knowledge gaps on the conservation and sustainable use of Paris (Melanthiaceae), a monocotyledonous genus hosting remarkable pharmaceutical significance and scientific importance. Overall, the conservation of threatened Paris species as well as the standardization of the cultivation of medicinal Paris species encounter numerous obstacles due to the scarcity of taxonomic expertise and presence of taxonomic knowledge gaps. These findings provide robust empirical evidence highlighting the crucial importance of taxonomy in biodiversity conservation and sustainability, thereby justifying the appeal to resurgence and advancement within this scientific discipline.

Diversification of the stem vascular system in a clade of recent radiation and multiple habit transitions: The Bunchosia clade (Malpighiaceae)

2025-06-16

Angélica Quintanar‐Castillo , André M. Amorim , Marcelo R. Pace | American Journal of Botany

Abstract Premise Within the Malpighiaceae, the Bunchosia clade is distinctive for its significant habit variation and abundance of different vascular variants. However, the processes underlying the diversification of the vascular … Abstract Premise Within the Malpighiaceae, the Bunchosia clade is distinctive for its significant habit variation and abundance of different vascular variants. However, the processes underlying the diversification of the vascular system over time and the ontogenetic events involved remain unclear. Focusing on the Bunchosia clade, this study explores how new vascular configurations evolve in Malpighiaceae and the factors driving this diversification. Methods We analyzed stem ontogeny in 19 species representing all six genera of the Bunchosia clade, sampling from the apex to the base of the plants. We used the phytools package in R to map the entire stem ontogenies onto the most recent phylogeny estimate of Malpighiaceae, identifying the developmental modifications and processes involved in stem diversification within the clade. Results The ancestral condition of the clade was inferred to be a lianescent habit with regular stem anatomy. Over evolutionary time, two independent transitions to a self‐supporting habit were inferred to have occurred. We identified five ontogenetic pathways, which led to distinct vascular system arrangements. Additionally, we propose two new records of cambial variants for the family. Conclusions From a regular secondary growth condition, different vascular variants evolved in a short period of evolutionary time in this clade. The self‐supporting habit appeared twice: (1) in Bunchosia , maintaining a plesiomorphic regular secondary growth, and (2) another in Echinopterys , where the self‐supporting habit retained the vascular variant inherited from the ancestor of the subclade. Our study provides insights into how stem vasculature diversified in lianescent clades and how it is related to habit transitions.

Ficha de Triportheus angulatus

2025-06-16

André Luiz Henriques Esguícero , André Luiz Netto Ferreira , Bruno Francelino de Melo +7 more | Datasets - Sistema SALVE - ICMBio

A new species and new records of Myrtaceae from Colombia

2025-06-15

Carlos Parra‐O. | Revista de la Academia Colombiana de Ciencias Exactas Físicas y Naturales

A new species of Myrcia from lowland tropical humid forests of Antioquia, Colombia, is described and illustrated. Taxonomic affinities of the new species are analyzed, as well as some of … A new species of Myrcia from lowland tropical humid forests of Antioquia, Colombia, is described and illustrated. Taxonomic affinities of the new species are analyzed, as well as some of its morphological characters, the habitat in which this species is growing, and the evaluation of its conservation status. Also, seven new records of native Myrtaceae are reported for Colombia.

Paleogeography of microcontinents in northeastern China in view of macroplant Leclercqia (Lycopsida) records during Middle to Late Devonian

2025-06-14

Yujin Zhang , Bingcai Liu , Dejun Zhang +2 more | Gondwana Research

Characterizing and distinguishing the earliest woody euphyllophytes based on secondary xylem anatomy: method development and application

2025-06-13

Emma Casselman , Alexandru M. F. Tomescu | Annals of Botany

Abstract Background and Aims The oldest vascular cambial growth (woody growth) has been recognized in several Early Devonian (ca. 410-395 Ma) euphyllophytes. Incomplete preservation of these fossils, in multiple cases, … Abstract Background and Aims The oldest vascular cambial growth (woody growth) has been recognized in several Early Devonian (ca. 410-395 Ma) euphyllophytes. Incomplete preservation of these fossils, in multiple cases, makes it difficult to evaluate their taxonomic diversity, in the absence of quantitative methods for distinguishing plants based on secondary xylem anatomy. In turn, this hinders understanding of their implications for the evolution of plant development. To develop and apply metrics that quantify secondary xylem anatomy and allow for conclusive comparisons, we investigated extant and Early Devonian fossil woody taxa. Methods We developed multiple metrics for quantifying tracheid size as a function of position in the secondary xylem and tested them against a dataset of extant gymnosperm wood. The four metrics that showed consistent trends within taxa and captured differences among taxa were then applied to previously recognized Early Devonian fossil woody taxa and to previously undescribed Early Devonian woody specimens to compare them and evaluate taxonomic diversity and placement of the new fossils. Key Results The four new secondary xylem metrics, considered alongside other anatomical characters, differentiated the previously recognized Early Devonian taxa from each other, allowed assignment of two of the new fossils to the previously described species Franhueberia gerriennei and separated two new woody euphyllophyte taxa. Conclusions The metrics developed here for quantifying secondary xylem anatomy are effective in demonstrating conspecificity and in separating distinct woody taxa, especially in combination with data on the primary xylem and xylem rays. They provide a new method for assessing the taxonomic placement of fossils with incomplete preservation, opening up a new avenue for exploring fossil plant diversity and for characterizing anatomy, with implications for the evolution of plant development.

A survey of generic names in Rubiaceae (Gentianales) with notes on context and patterns in naming

2025-06-13

Brecht Verstraete , Petra De Block , Elmar Robbrecht | Taxon

Abstract Rubiaceae is one of the most diverse angiosperm families and consequently is the topic of much systematic research. Plenty of literature exists on the familial, tribal, and species level; … Abstract Rubiaceae is one of the most diverse angiosperm families and consequently is the topic of much systematic research. Plenty of literature exists on the familial, tribal, and species level; however, a comprehensive overview of the names at the generic level is lacking. The aim of this study is to present a survey of all names and designations at the generic rank in Rubiaceae and to uncover the context surrounding their establishment. Information about classification, authorship, publication date, type species, status (accepted or synonym), number of species, name length and initial letter, etymology, and stable identifiers is collected from literature and online databases. In addition, four aspects of naming (i.e., letters, authorship, date, etymology) are investigated in detail to look for patterns. Rubiaceae has 1386 generic names, of which 615 are accepted and contain 14,266 species. This makes it the fifth‐largest angiosperm family based on the number of genera. The median number of species per genus is 4, but there are 191 monospecific genera. Of the 72 tribes, Spermacoceae has the largest number of generic names but 27 tribes are monogeneric, of which 12 are monospecific. Generic names are between 3 and 20 letters long and the distribution of the number of letters is a displaced Poisson distribution. Names beginning with P are the most frequent. Only 30 women were involved in the construction of 59 generic names, with a median publication year of 2010; for 98.2% of the names, men were involved. Europeans were and still are involved in the publication of the large majority of names. Almost half of the names appeared in the 19th century, but the proportion of accepted names increased over time. The average number of new generic names is 5.05 per year. Generic names more often have their origin in Greek than in Latin. The most common way of naming is referring to a plant feature, often reproductive characters. Eponyms, chiefly commemorating men, have always been common and even became dominant in the last two decades.

Sonerila gigantea (Melastomataceae): A New Species from Western Ghats, India

2025-06-13

Prashant Karadakatti , Siddappa B Kakkalameli | Asian Journal of Research in Botany

Oligocene cf. Canarium L. (Burseraceae) leaflet from India provides new evidence of its Gondwanan legacy

2025-06-13

Harshita Bhatia , Gaurav Srivastava | International Journal of Plant Sciences

Portulaca bharat (Portulacaceae), a new species from Aravalli hills of Rajasthan, India

2025-06-12

Amber Srivastava , Nishant Chauhan , Sudhansu Sekhar Dash +1 more | Phytotaxa

Portulaca bharat (Portulacaceae) is described and illustrated as a new species from the Aravalli hills (Jaipur, Rajasthan, India). The new species belongs to the subg. Portulaca sect. Neossia having opposite … Portulaca bharat (Portulacaceae) is described and illustrated as a new species from the Aravalli hills (Jaipur, Rajasthan, India). The new species belongs to the subg. Portulaca sect. Neossia having opposite leaf, and it resembles the Linnaean P. quadrifida in having prostrate habit, articulated stem, four petals and flowers encircled by four involucral bracts, but differs in having larger growth habit, oblong-lanceolate and slightly concave leaves, pale yellow flowers becoming creamish-white towards apex, presence of glandular hairs on stamen filaments and thick roots. A detailed morphological description is provided, along with original photos.

On the origin of euphyllophyte roots – hypotheses from an Early Devonian Psilophyton

2025-06-12

Jeffrey B. Doran , Alexandru M. F. Tomescu | Annals of Botany

Abstract Background and Aims Rooting structures have been documented in different Early Devonian plants, including rhyniophytes and zosterophylls. However, the basal euphyllophytes – the plexus from which modern ferns, equisetophytes … Abstract Background and Aims Rooting structures have been documented in different Early Devonian plants, including rhyniophytes and zosterophylls. However, the basal euphyllophytes – the plexus from which modern ferns, equisetophytes and seed plants evolved – are the only group with no known rooting structures in Early Devonian representatives. We revisit the early euphyllophyte Psilophyton crenulatum whose emergences have implications for rooting structure evolution within the clade. Methods Well preserved Early Devonian (earliest Emsian) material from the Val d’Amour Formation in New Brunswick (Canada) was freed from the rock matrix using acid. Over 2000 emergences from 28 randomly selected P. crenulatum axes were characterized qualitatively and quantitatively in terms of morphology and distribution. Key Results The features of the emergences are more consistent with a rooting function than with any other possible role: irregular morphology, including forms with complex branching; anatomy involving external layers of thin-walled cells; apical meristematic growth that allowed for branching; terminations in filiform rhizoid-sized tips; and vertically polarized distribution, with nearly twice as many emergences on the lower sides of axes compared to the upper sides. The absence of any other potential rooting structures associated with P. crenulatum also supports a rooting function for the emergences. Conclusions If the emergences of P. crenulatum had a rooting function, they are the oldest euphyllophyte rooting structures. They are also a novel, sui generis type of such structures among Early Devonian plants. They also provide the oldest direct evidence for gravity-induced morphological features in euphyllophytes. If they evolved from emergences like those of P. crenulatum, then euphyllophyte roots probably inherited from them apical growth and branching, and gene networks responsible for production of tip-growing filamentous cells. Progressive increase in size of such emergences could have increased auxin fluxes, leading to specification of vascular connections to subtending axes.

Cyphostemma namonarmadense (Vitaceae), a new etendrillate species from Gujarat, India

2025-06-12

Mayur D. Nandikar , Tanmay Rohit , Kishore S. Rajput +1 more | Kew Bulletin

Doliocarpus stehmannii (Doliocarpoideae, Dilleniaceae): a new species of water vine from Brazil

2025-06-12

João Victor Longhi Monzoli , Gerardo A. Aymard C. , Michelly de Deus Felipe Araújo +2 more | Phytotaxa

A new species of Doliocarpus (Dilleniaceae) collected in the Brazilian Atlantic Forest (southern center of the state of Minas Gerais) is presented. Doliocarpus stehmannii is morphologically similar to Doliocarpus hispidus, … A new species of Doliocarpus (Dilleniaceae) collected in the Brazilian Atlantic Forest (southern center of the state of Minas Gerais) is presented. Doliocarpus stehmannii is morphologically similar to Doliocarpus hispidus, but the latter occurs in northwestern Colombia and Central America. The new species can be distinguished by the lack of brachyblasts (vs. presence of brachyblasts in D. hispidus), 8−11 pairs of secondary veins (vs. 15−20), adaxial surface of the sepals glabrous (vs. pubescent) and glabrous fruits (vs.pubescent). Finally, we provide the first identification key for the 42 species of Doliocarpus from Brazil.

Short Note on the Early Cretaceous Flora of India

2025-06-12

Sreepat Jain , Ahmed Awad Abdelhady | CRC Press eBooks

Hybridization during the adaptive radiation ofOxera(Lamiaceae) in New Caledonia: Is flower shape shift driven by introgression?

2025-06-11

Ritsuko Ikeda , Ryoya Kawai , Gildas Gâteblé +5 more | bioRxiv (Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory)

Abstract Recent genomic studies have suggested that hybridization may play a significant role in adaptive radiation, rapid speciation, and convergent evolution. The genus Oxera , a plant taxon thought to … Abstract Recent genomic studies have suggested that hybridization may play a significant role in adaptive radiation, rapid speciation, and convergent evolution. The genus Oxera , a plant taxon thought to have diversified at its beginning through adaptive radiation in New Caledonia, provided an opportunity to investigate these processes. Within the robusta subclade of Oxera , characterized by bird-pollinated yellow-orange flowers, convergent evolution of flower shape is likely to have occurred. We aimed to elucidate the hybridization history of the robusta subclade by whole genome sequencing and MIG-seq data. Our analyses revealed an ancestral introgression from O. coriacea to O. sympatrica , whose flowers are remarkably similar to each other. Among the introgressed genomic regions, we identified several genes potentially involved in flower shape development. O. sympatrica and its sympatric sister species exhibit distinct flower shapes, and pollinator-mediated reproductive isolation presumed to be a major barrier between them. The ancestral introgression uncovered in this study may have driven the convergent evolution of flower shape in the robusta subclade and played a crucial role in the speciation process of O. sympatrica . These finding contribute to our understanding of the interplay between hybridization, adaptive radiation, and speciation process.