Phylogenetic relationships within the tribe Janieae (Corallinales, Rhodophyta) based on molecular and morphological data: a reappraisal ofJania1

Abstract

Generic boundaries among the generaCheilosporum,Haliptilon, andJania—currently referred to the tribe Janieae (Corallinaceae, Corallinales, Rhodophyta)—were reassessed. Phylogenetic relationships among 42 corallinoidean taxa were determined based on 26 anatomical characters and nuclear SSU rDNA sequence data for 11 species (with two duplicate plants) referred to the tribe Corallineae and 15 species referred to the tribe Janieae (two species ofCheilosporum, seven ofHaliptilon, and six ofJania, with five duplicate plants). Results from our approach were consistent with the hypothesis that the tribe Janieae is monophyletic. Our data indicate, however, thatJaniaandHaliptilonas currently delimited are not monophyletic, and thatCheilosporumshould not be recognized as an independent genus within the Janieae. Our data resolved two well‐supported biogeographic clades for the included Janieae, an Indian‐Pacific clade and a temperate North Atlantic clade. Among anatomical characters, reproductive structures reflected the evolution of the Janieae. Based on our results, three genera,Cheilosporum,Haliptilon, andJania, should be merged into a single genus, withJaniahaving nomenclatural priority. We therefore propose new combinations where necessary of some species previously included inCheilosporumandHaliptilon.