| Abstract Detail
Systematics Section/ASPT Gahagen, Benjamin [1], Terbush, Michael [2], Ballard Jr, Harvey [3]. A Phenetic Study of the Tovomita weddelliana Planch. & Triana Species Complex. The genus, Tovomita Aubl., is one of 28 in Clusiaceae and includes approximately 45 neotropical species. Distinct morphological characteristics that define this genus are one ovule per carpel,distinct stylodia, two outer sepals that completely envelope the bud, and a vascularized aril-like structure observed on dehisced fruit. Tovomita weddelliana Planch. & Triana sensu lato consists of a species complex within this genus. The complex is characterized by clustered terminal leaves, sub-sessile oblanceolate blades with a glaucous lower surface,ovate-suborbicular sepals, numerous stamens with linear-subulate filaments, and an oblong glabrous ovary with four locules. The differences in herbarium specimens suggest several distinct species can be segregated within this group. This study examined the diverse morphology of all specimens belonging to the complex, characterizing patterns of variation in traits such as leaf phyllotaxy, leaf shape, leaf decurrence; inflorescence, sepals, petals, staminate and pistillate flowers; fruit anatomy, shape, locule and ovule number, and stylodia characteristics. Measurements of these features along with other qualitative traits were subjected to a canonical variates analysis (CVA) with sequential removal of distinct groups, to identify morphologically distinct elements in the complex. The analysis shows separation of all predetermined groups,which are interpreted as multiple distinct species currently passing unrecognized under the name T. weddelliana. Abutting or intermingling clusters of specimens observed in the analysis may represent subtle differences in morphology of staminate and pistillate trees representing the same species. Future research will examine molecular phylogenetic relationships among these and other members of Tovomita. Broader Impacts:
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1 - Ohio University, 317 Porter Hall, Athens, OH, 45701, USA
2 - 1368 Nutmeg Ct., Westerville, OH, 43081, USA
3 - Ohio University, ENVIR & PLANT BIOLOGY-PORTER H, 315 Porter Hall, Athens, OH, 45701-2979, USA
Keywords:
phenetic analysis
Tovomita
T. weddelliana
Clusiaceae.
Presentation Type: Poster:Posters for Sections
Session: P
Location: Battelle South/Convention Center
Date: Monday, July 9th, 2012
Time: 5:30 PM
Number: PSY015
Abstract ID:447 |
