Abstract Detail

Systematics Section/ASPT

Garcia, Michelle [1], Moody, Michael [2].

Systematics, phylogeography and species discovery in the Australian angiosperm genus Gonocarpus (Haloragaceae).

The angiosperm genus Gonocarpus (Haloragaceae) is a relatively poorly known group with high levels of local endemism throughout its range. It occurs primarily in Australia (34/37 spp.) with six species ranging into New Zealand and/or Asia. Much of Gonocarpus diversity is found in the southwest Western Australia International Biodiversity Hotspot where several species are considered rare or of priority concern. The most recent taxonomic treatment for the genus was based on morphology only and included very few specimens as collections were limited until recently. This genus also has a high level of morphological plasticity and several species are described as highly variable. Here we use a molecular phylogenetic approach to aid in our understanding of species limits, evolutionary relationships and biogeographic origins. DNA data was collected from the nrDNA internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region for 91 accessions. Chloroplast DNA (cpDNA) data was collected from intron region trnL – trnF for 82 accessions for comparative analyses. Sequences were analyzed to construct a phylogenetic hypothesis, determine times of divergence, and infer ancestral distribution. Results from phylogenetic analyses of both ITS and cpDNA show high molecular variability among species and have uncovered cryptic species in southwest Western Australia. Analyses support an origin of the genus in Western Australia approximately 50 mya with dispersal east and multiple events leading to dispersal into Asia.  These results will be used to help define new species of Gonocarpus, inform conservation efforts and provide further evidence regarding phylogeographic patterns in Australia.

1 - 6369 Cherbourg, El Paso, TX, 79925, United States
2 - University Of Texas At El Paso, Department Of Biology, 500 W. University Ave., Bioscience Bldg 2.120, El Paso, TX, 79968, USA

Keywords:
Phylogeny
Gonocarpus
Australia.

Presentation Type: Poster:Posters for Sections
Session: P
Location: Eyrie/Boise Centre
Date: Monday, July 28th, 2014
Time: 5:30 PM
Number: PSY011
Abstract ID:176
Candidate for Awards:None