| Abstract Detail
Systematics Section / ASPT Estes, Dwayne [1], Small, Randall [1]. Analysis of the phylogenetic relationships of the monotypic genus Amphianthus (Plantaginaceae) using chloroplast DNA sequences and comparative morphology. Amphianthus (Plantaginaceae or Scrophulariaceae s.l., tribe Gratioleae) is a monotypic genus represented by the federally threatened species A. pusillus. Amphianthus is endemic to the Piedmont of Alabama, Georgia, and South Carolina where it is restricted to shallow pools on granite bedrock. The systematic placement of the genus has been problematic due to its unusual morphological features including dimorphic leaves, two flower types, and capsule morphology. Amphianthus has been placed within the tribe Gratioleae based on its possession of distinct stigmas, posterior corolla lobe position, and glandular-punctate leaf blades. The unique morphology, however, has led some researchers to hypothesize that Amphianthus is an extremely old taxon (i.e. a paleoendemic) that has long evolved in isolation without extant relatives. To address the relationships of Amphianthus to other members of Gratioleae, chloroplast DNA sequences from the gene ndhF and the noncoding trnS-trnG intergenic spacer and intron were generated and subjected to phylogenetic analysis. The morphology and evolutionary history of Amphianthus will be discussed in the context of its inferred phylogenetic relationships. Log in to add this item to your schedule
1 - University of Tennessee, Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, 437 Hesler Biology Building, 1406 Circle Drive, Knoxville, Tennessee, 37996-1100, USA
Keywords: Amphianthus Plantaginaceae Gratiola Gratioleae.
Presentation Type: Oral Paper Session: 48-15 Location: Salon G - Austin Grand Ballroom/Hilton Date: Wednesday, August 17th, 2005 Time: 4:45 PM Abstract ID:407 |