| Abstract Detail
Systematics Section / ASPT Berry, Paul E. [1], Van Ee, Benjamin [2], Riina, Ricarda [3]. Molecular phylogenetics of Croton (Euphorbiaceae): a large sampling allows a new classification and understanding of morphological traits and biogeography in the genus. A 2005 paper by Berry et al. provided the first molecular analyses of Croton, with about 80 of the 1250 species analyzed in the genus. We now have over 500 species sampled for ITS, trnL-F, and some for rbcL and ndhF. This has led to a much greater ability to accept or reject the hypotheses of Webster (1993), in which he proposed 40 sections within the genus. It also allows us to readily estimate the phylogenetic position of species whose morphology does not allow ready placement into any particular group. A proposed “big picture” phylogenetic reconstruction of Croton is now possible, showing a small sister lineage to the main radiation of the genus occurring mainly in the Caribbean and surrounding areas and showing distinct morphological adaptations and generally occupying more mesic conditions. Examples are given of several approaches to examining phylogenetic issues in Croton, such as geographically based studies, habit-based analyses (tree lineages in South America), and clade-based approaches. We are now beginning to develop interactive web-based keys to sections and species of Croton in the New World.
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1 - University of Michigan Herbarium, 3600 Varsity Dr., Ann Arbor, MI, 48108-2287
2 - Smithsonian Institution, Botany, Washington, D.C., 20560, USA
3 - University of Michigan Herbarium, 3600 Varsity Drive, Ann Arbor, Michigan, 48108
Keywords:
Croton
Euphorbiaceae
phylogeny.
Presentation Type: Oral Paper:Papers for Sections
Session: CP43
Location: Stevens 3/Hilton
Date: Wednesday, July 11th, 2007
Time: 11:15 AM
Number: CP43012
Abstract ID:2250 |
