Abstract Detail

Systematics

Burke, Janelle [1], GRANT, KIRSTIE [2], Mansaray, Janet [3].

Rechinger’s Rumex: taxonomy and plant sex revisited.

Rumex (Polygonaceae) is a genus of annual and perennial herbs with ca. 200 species. The genus is almost cosmopolitan in distribution, and has been a source of scientific intrigue due to the presence of sex chromosomes found in several species. Within Rumex, the occurrence of polyploidy, widespread hybridization and local land races have led to substantial taxonomic complexity. Between 1933-1984, Karl Heinz Rechinger worked steadily on revisions of Rumex, divided by geographic region. Through these works, he proposed a comprehensive subgeneric classification system, and posited several theories regarding the evolution of Rumex species and traits. We present a phylogeny of Rumex, reconstructed using 3 plastid markers and extensive taxon sampling from all subgenera and sections. Not surprisingly, many of the subgenera and sections circumscribed by Rechinger are not monophyletic. However, the phylogenetic reconstruction supports of number of Rechinger’s theories on the evolution in Rumex, such as the common origin of most of the dioecious species, the relatedness of the South American taxa, and the plasticity of fruit characteristics. Our results also reveal a radiation of dioecious species, associated with the acquisition of sex chromosomes.

1 - Howard University, 415 College St. NW, Dept. Of Biology, Washington, DC, 20059, USA
2 - Howard University, 415 College Street, NW, Washington, District of Columbia, 20059, United States
3 - Howard University, 415 College St. NW, Washington, District Of Columbia, 20059

Keywords:
dioecy
Polygonaceae
sorrel
dock
Sex chromosomes.

Presentation Type: Oral Paper
Session: 37, Systematics II: Caryophyllids & Basal Asterids
Location: Sundance 4/Omni Hotel
Date: Wednesday, June 28th, 2017
Time: 10:30 AM
Number: 37002
Abstract ID:478
Candidate for Awards:None