Abstract
The closely related species present in the subgenera of Urostigma are challenging to classify due to the existence of overlapping morphological characteristics, which makes identification habitually problematic. It is still unresolved whether the species of the Ficus virens complex, which includes F. virens, F. middletonii, F. caulocarpa, F. concinna, and F. superba, are the same or distinct species due to the complexities in classification. To clarify the circumscription between the species and re-evaluate the taxonomical status, morphological characteristics were extensively examined; further, a phylogenetic reconstruction based on two DNA markers (ITS2 and trnH-psbA) in combination with morphological traits was carried out. The phylogenetic tree constructed using the combined morphology and DNA markers revealed that the five species should be demarcated as independent species. This study supports the importance of using both molecular and morphological data for efficient discrimination of species having high similarities. Further investigation into the species present in the subgenera Urostigma may provide additional information regarding the ancestral traits and its evolutionary history.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
