Abstract Detail

Systematics

Amarasinghe, Prabha [1], Cellinese, Nico [2].

A preliminary molecular phylogeny of Memecylon (Melastomataceae) reveals novel insights into its biogeographic patterns.

Memecylon (Melastomataceae), a plant group consisting of 350 – 400 species, is distributed throughout the Old World Tropics. It occupies a wide range of habitats and shows specific environmental adaptations, with high regional endemism. Even though phylogenetic relationships have been studied for African Memecylon, the historical evolution of this group remains poorly investigated. In this study, we improve on the existing available phylogenetic data by adding more taxa and loci, and generate a preliminary analysis on the age and historical biogeography of this group. Our results suggest that Memecylon diverged most likely from Africa followed by migrations into Asia and Southeast Asia. We also identify a number of regions, which will be important to explore for taxon sampling as we move forward towards an in-depth study into the evolution of this group. Finally, we propose an integration of biogeography and time-calibrated phylogeny with niche modelling approach to investigate the drivers of diversification and the origin of endemic taxa.

1 - Florida Museum of Natural History, Department of Biology, University of Florida, 1659 Museum Rd, Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA
2 - Florida Museum of Natural History, Department of Biology, University of Florida, 1659 Museum Rd, Gainesville, Florida, 32611, USA

Keywords:
Memecylon
Melastomataceae
phylogeny
Biogeography.

Presentation Type: Poster
Session: P, Systematics Section/ASPT Posters
Location: Exhibit Hall/Savannah International Trade and Convention Center
Date: Monday, August 1st, 2016
Time: 5:30 PM This poster will be presented at 6:15 pm. The Poster Session runs from 5:30 pm to 7:00 pm. Posters with odd poster numbers are presented at 5:30 pm, and posters with even poster numbers are presented at 6:15 pm.
Number: PSY032
Abstract ID:263
Candidate for Awards:None