Phylogenetic Relationships in Cariceae (Cyperaceae) Based on ITS (nrDNA) and trnT-L-F (cpDNA) Region Sequences: Assessment of Subgeneric and Sectional Relationships in Carex with Emphasis on Section Acrocystis

Abstract

Abstract With approximately 2,000 species, Carex is the largest genus in the Cyperaceae and is one of the most widespread genera in the world. Relationships within Carex and among the genera of the Cariceae (Carex, Cymophyllus, Kobresia, Schoenoxiphium, and Uncinia) are unclear. For this reason, a molecular phylogenetic study employing nrDNA ITS and cpDNA trnT-L-F spacer sequences was undertaken. In addition to creating hypotheses of relationship for the Cariceae and testing classifications of this tribe, a primary goal of this study was to assess relationships within Carex section Acrocystis and identify a monophyletic group for more detailed study. These analyses suggest that Cymophyllus, Kobresia, Schoenoxiphium, and Uncinia are nested within Carex. Three primary clades are suggested: a Carex subgenus Vignea clade, a clade including Carex subgenus Primocarex (for the most part) and the other genera of Cariceae, and a clade predominately comprised of Carex subgenera Carex and Indocarex. A large part of ...