Abstract Detail

Systematics Section/ASPT

Gonzalez, Lauren [1], Soltis, Douglas E. [2], Soltis, Pamela S. [3].

Elucidating the Evolutionary History of Tropaeolum (Tropaeolaceae).

Tropaeolum (Tropaeolaceae) comprises ~ 90 species native to Central and South America. The species are distributed throughout the continent, particularly in and around the Andes, within a variety of different habitat types, including several biodiversity hotspots. Some species are narrow endemics, while others are widespread throughout their geographic range. Because of the distributions of the species, the genus represents an ideal system to study how historical processes have affected plant diversity and evolution in South America. In addition, the species also show great variation in floral morphology (e.g. color, shape, size); some species have been important cultivars around the world. Several species are deemed endangered or threatened, and several others are susceptible to extinction but we lack sufficient data. The goals of this study are: 1) to reconstruct the phylogeny of Tropaeolum using available DNA sequences, 2) estimate divergence times, 3) use georeferenced data to conduct an initial exploration of biogeography, and 4) to conduct a preliminary mapping of floral characters onto the phylogeny to investigate patterns and drivers of variation. With these initial analyses, we hope to provide a better understanding of the evolutionary history of Tropaeolum and identify future directions for research.

1 - University of Florida, Florida Museum of Natural History, 1659 Museum Rd, Gainesville, Florida, 32611, United States
2 - University of Florida, Florida Museum of Natural History, Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA
3 - University Of Florida, Florida Museum Of Natural History, PO Box 117800, Gainesville, FL, 32611-7800, USA, 352/273-1964

Keywords:
Tropaeolaceae
Phylogenetics
biogeography
Andes.

Presentation Type: Poster:Posters for Sections
Session: P
Location: Hall D/The Shaw Conference Centre
Date: Monday, July 27th, 2015
Time: 5:30 PM
Number: PSY019
Abstract ID:750
Candidate for Awards:None