Phylogenomic analyses of the Neotropical Artocarpeae (Moraceae) reveal a history of introgression and support the reinstatement of Acanthinophyllum

Abstract

This molecular study of the Neotropical Artocarpeae, the closest living allies of the Asia-Pacific breadfruit genus, uses phylogenomic and network analyses to untangle the evolutionary history of this difficult group. Results paint a picture of a rapid radiation, with introgression, incomplete lineage sorting, and lack of gene tree resolution confounding attempts to reconstruct a well-supported bifurcating tree. While coalescent-based species trees were markedly at odds with morphology, multifurcating phylogenetic network analyses recovered multiple histories, with clearer traces of morphological alliances. The sole unambiguous finding is the sister relationship between Clarisia sect. Acanthinophyllum and the rest of the Neotropical Artocarpeae; as a result, the genus Acanthinophyllum is reinstated.