Abstract Detail

Systematics Section/ASPT

Calonje, Michael [1], Meerow, Alan [2], Griffith, M. Patrick [3], Salas-Leiva, Dayana [4], Francisco-Ortega, Javier [5], Vovides, Andrew [6].

A molecular phylogeny of Zamia L.: a multi-gene approach using single-copy nuclear genes.

The genus Zamia, with approximately 70 species, is the most morphologically and ecologically diverse genus in the Cycadales. We present the preliminary results of a multi-gene phylogenetic analysis of the genus Zamia including over 90% of the currently accepted species in the genus. A concatenated matrix containing intron regions of five single-copy nuclear genes was analyzed using maximum parsimony and likelihood phylogenetic inference methods, the latter using a mixed-model analysis with optimal substitution rates applied. A gene tree/species tree reconciliation analysis is also presented. The genes used in the analysis include: Cy-AGAM (Cycas Agamous), a C MADS-box gene thought to control reproductive organ identity; PEX4, a gene encoding for a peroxisomal ubiquitin conjugating enzyme; PMP22, a gene encoding for a peroxisomal membrane 22 kDA family protein; ATG2, a gene encoding for a metallopeptidase M24 family protein, and WRKY4, a gene encoding for transcriptional regulators. PCR protocols for these genes were developed at the labs at the USDA and FTBG. Major clades and novel phylogenetic relationships are discussed within the context of biogeography and comparative macromorphology. The genus Zamia appears to have originated in the Caribbean basin and dispersed through Central America into South America. Major clades are strongly congruent with geographic distribution, agreeing with the limited gene flow and dispersal ability of the Cycadales. In addition,convergent evolution of macromorphological characters appears to be common in the genus.

Broader Impacts:

1 - Florida International University, Biological Sciences, 11200 S.W. 8th Street, Miami, FL, 33199, USA
2 - USDA-ARS-SHRS, UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, 13601 Old Cutler Road, Miami, FL, 33158, USA
3 - Montgomery Botanical Center, 11901 Old Cutler Road, Miami, FL, 33156, USA
4 - USDA-ARS SHRS, 13601 Old Cutler Road, Miami, FL, 33158, USA
5 - Florida International University & Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden, Miami, FL, 33199, USA
6 - INSTITUTO DE ECOLOGIA AC, APDO POSTAL 63, XALAPA, VER, 91000, México

Keywords:
Cycadales
zamia
cycads
Phylogenetics.

Presentation Type: Oral Paper:Papers for Sections
Session: 54
Location: Delaware B/Hyatt
Date: Wednesday, July 11th, 2012
Time: 2:15 PM
Number: 54004
Abstract ID:603