Micromorphology of Scirpus (Cyperaceae) and related genera in south-west Europe

Glume surface, fruit surface, perianth bristles and pollen morphology in Scirpus L. and related genera from south-west Europe have been investigated by light and scanning electron microscopy. The results of this analysis confirm the heterogeneity of the group and provide further support to the current recognition of the genera Scirpus L., Bolboschoenus (Rchb.) Palla , Scirpoides Ség., Schoenoplectus (Rchb.) Palla, Isolepis R.Br., Trichophorum Pers. and Blysmus Panz. as well as to a re-appraisal of subg. Actaeogeton (Rchb.) Oteng-Yeb. of Schoenoplectus .  © 2004 The Linnean Society of London, Botanical Journal of the Linnean Society , 2004, 145 , 45–58.     

Khaosokia caricoides, a new genus and species of Cyperaceae from Thailand

Khaosokia caricoides , D.A. Simpson, Chayam. & J. Parn., a newly discovered genus and species of Cyperaceae is described and illustrated. The genus is characterized by a narrowly paniculate dioecious inflorescence with 2–4 nodes, each of the nodes having a leaf-like inflorescence bract that exceeds the inflorescence. Spikelets in both sexes are linear-cylindric and each flower has seven perianth bristles. The nutlet was immature in the specimens examined. The photosynthetic pathway is C₃. Khaosokia is endemic to limestone cliffs in peninsular Thailand; its conservation status is assessed as Vulnerable (VU B1a + 2a). It has affinities to tribes Cariceae, Dulichieae and some members of Scirpeae, but the exact nature of these relationships has yet to be determined. A revised key to the genera of Cyperaceae in Thailand is presented.  © 2005 The Linnean Society of London, Botanical Journal of the Linnean Society , 2005, 149 , 357–364.     

Reproductive structures and systematics of Buxaceae

Buxaceae belong to a grade of families near the base of eudicots. Flowers of these families are characterized by a variable number and arrangement of floral organs. In this study, the anthetic structure of the gynoecium and androecium of representatives of all genera of Buxaceae were comparatively studied, and observations on the flowering processes and pollination biology were made. Styloceras and Notobuxus were studied in detail for the first time. Various features of the morphological analysis support our earlier molecular phylogenetic study. Shared reproductive characters among Sarcococca , Pachysandra and Styloceras are the occurrence of two (rarely three) carpels, the lack of interstylar nectaries, a micropyle formed by both integuments, attractive stamens in male flowers, and fleshy fruits. In addition, Styloceras and Pachysandra share a secondary partition in the ovary. Notobuxus does not seem to be clearly distinct from Buxus . Both have a similar inflorescence and perianth structure; female flowers have three carpels, interstylar nectaries, micropyles formed by the inner integument, rudimentary arils, and they develop into capsular fruits; in male flowers stamens are sessile and the central pistillode is lacking in some species. Thus, it is questionable to justify a separation of Buxus and Notobuxus at genus level. The results further strongly support the placement of Buxaceae among basal eudicots.  © The Linnean Society of London, Botanical Journal of the Linnean Society , 2002, 140 , 193–228.     

Neotropical ennomine moths: a review of the genera (Lepidoptera: Geometridae)

The classification of the Neotropical genera of the Ennominae is reviewed and 267 genera are recognised to occur in this region. Three new genera are described and three others are reinstated, while 48 generic synonyms are newly established. Other changes established in this work include 14 species synonyms and 237 new or reinstated combinations. External features and genitalia of representative members of the genera are illustrated (753 figures). All the known Neotropical species and subspecies of Ennominae are listed ( c . 3470), plus their synonyms. The tribes to which the genera belong are assessed, with c . 200 of the genera assigned to tribe or other suprageneric grouping.  © 2002 The Linnean Society of London, Zoological Journal of the Linnean Society , 2002, 135 , 121–401.     

What is the subtribe Glossonematinae (Apocynaceae: Asclepiadoideae)? A phylogenetic study based on cpDNA spacer

Evidence from the chloroplast trn T-L spacer, trn L intron and trn L-F spacer shows the subtribe Glossonematinae of the tribe Asclepiadeae, hitherto composed of the Arabian and North African genera Glossonema , Odontanthera and Solenostemma , not to be monophyletic. While the affinities of Solenostemma cannot be determined with certainty at present, molecular, karyological and morphological evidence suggests that Glossonema and Odontanthera are closely allied to Pentarrhinum , an African genus of five species, belonging to the Cynanchinae.  © 2002 The Linnean Society of London, Botanical Journal of the Linnean Society , 2002, 139 , 145–158.     

Iris stenophylla Hausskn. & Siehe ex Baker from Turkey and its cytology

A morphological study, both in the field and from herbarium material, showed that there are no convincing characteristics separating the Turkish endemics Iris stenophylla ssp. stenophylla and ssp. allisonii . A cytological survey revealed chromosome numbers of 2 n  = 24, 26 and 26 + 1B. No variation in either chromosome number or karyotype was found in ssp. allisonii , which always had 2 n  = 26, although the chromosome number and karyotypes of ssp. stenophylla were variable. Since neither morphological nor cytological differences were sufficient to separate the two subspecies, I. stenophylla ssp. allisonii is therefore reduced to a synonym of I. stenophylla .  © 2002 The Linnean Society of London, Botanical Journal of the Linnean Society , 2002, 140 , 115−127.     

Chromosomes of four species in three genera of Commelinaceae from China and their systematic implications

Chromosomes of four species in three genera of Commelinaceae from China were examined. Spatholirion longifolium had 2 n  = 20. This small genus is considered to be of a possible polyploid origin based on x  = 5, a basic number shared by its closest ally, the monospecific genus Streptolirion , with its only species having 2 n  = 10. The two genera were found to be very different from each other in their karyotypic constitution. The differences in both chromosome number (2 n  = 20 vs. 10) and karyotypic constitution support their separation as two independent genera. The remaining three species, Amischotolype hispida , Porandra ramosa and P. scandens , all had 2 n  = 36. In view of the occasional occurrence of 2 n  = 18 in the African Coleotrype , a genus very close to Amischotolype and Porandra in gross morphology, these three species are all very probably polyploid based on x  = 9. The high degree of karyotypic similarity of the three genera also strongly indicates their close affinity and supports their placement in the subtribe Coleotrypinae. © 2006 The Linnean Society of London, Botanical Journal of the Linnean Society , 2006, 152 , 399–403.     

Systematics of the tribe Podalyrieae (Fabaceae) based on DNA, morphological and chemical data

Phylogenetic relationships among nine genera and 28 species of the southern African tribe Podalyrieae were estimated from sequences of the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) of nuclear ribosomal DNA as well as morphological and chemical data. Morphological and ITS sequence data produced cladograms with similar topologies, both supporting the monophyly of Podalyrieae (excluding Hypocalyptus ). The combined data sets indicate that subtribe Xiphothecinae are monophyletic, but embedded within Podalyriinae. The high degree of congruence between previous taxonomic hypotheses and those based on DNA data provides further evidence for the utility of ITS sequences in studying phylogeny.  © 2002 The Linnean Society of London , Botanical Journal of the Linnean Society , 2002, 139 , 159–170.     

Relationships, classification and evolution of Scleranthus (Caryophyllaceae) as inferred from analysis of morphological characters

Study of floral anatomy, micromorphology, palynology and onotogeny has revealed new characters for phylogenetic analysis in the genus Scleranthus . Cladistic analysis of these characters, along with those previously available, suggests that the genus consists of Eurasian/Mediterranean and Australasian sister clades. Gynoecial morphology and development are closely similar in all species, suggesting the genus is monophyletic despite its disjunct northern and southern hemisphere distribution. Variation in pollen:ovule ratios and their implications for the evolution of Scleranthus species are also discussed and it is concluded that a range of breeding strategies intermediate between autogamy and xenogamy exists in the genus. Single-stamened species of Scleranthus are likely to be obligate autogams, despite their comparatively high pollen:ovule ratios in relation to autogamic species of other genera.  © 2002 The Linnean Society of London, Botanical Journal of the Linnean Society , 2002, 140 , 15–29.     

New taxa of Japanese and New Zealand Eurystomellidae (Phylum Bryozoa) and their phylogenetic relationships

As presently recognized, the small cheilostome bryozoan family Eurystomellidae (superfamily Catenicelloidea) comprises just two genera: Eurystomella Levinsen, 1909 , with three Recent species, and Selenariopsis Maplestone, 1913 ; with one Recent and two fossil species. Within Eurystomella sensu lato , colonies range from uni-/biserial to multiserial and the smooth gymnocystal frontal shields of zooids may be entire or have one to several large foramina. Here we describe seven new Recent species of encrusting eurystomellids from New Zealand and Japan. Including species of Selenariopsis , a cladistic analysis was carried out on 11 eurystomellid species and five outgroup species, the latter representing the families Cribrilinidae, Euthyroididae, Petalostegidae, and Catenicellidae. The results of the analysis support restricting Eurystomella to multiserial species with large frontal foramina, median suboral sutures, and basal pore-chambers. Two new genera, both with imperforate frontal shields and uniporous mural septula, are segregated from Eurystomella : uni-/biserial Zygopalme , with a median suboral suture and accssory perforations in the ovicellular kenozooid, and multiserial Integripelta , lacking the suture and accessory perforations.  © 2002 The Linnean Society of London, Zoological Journal of the Linnean Society , 2002, 136 , 199–216.     

A review of the genera of Macariini with a revised classification of the tribe (Geometridae: Ennominae)

The generic classification of moths of the tribe Macariini Guenée is reviewed critically, and a revised classification is presented. The review is based on a survey of species across the taxonomic and geographical range of the tribe. In the new framework, the number of genera is reduced considerably. Two genera are very large: Macaria Curtis (mainly New World) and Chiasmia Hübner (largely Old World) together include over half of all macariine species. Twenty-three genera are accepted in the tribe; the identity of two genera remain uncertain. No single character defines the tribe, but diagnostic features include one or more of the following: the presence of enlarged setae ('horns') on the uncus in the male genitalia; a divided valva; and a modified condition of sternum A8 in the male. The taxonomic history of the tribe is reviewed briefly and the problems of previous systems are explained mainly by the regional approach adopted. A diagnosis is presented for each genus. © 2002 The Linnean Society of London, Zoological Journal of the Linnean Society , 2002, 134 , 257–315.     

Morphological and pollen differentiation in Solanum cardiophyllum ssp. cardiophyllum and S. cardiophyllum ssp. ehrenbergii

A multivariate analysis to differentiate morphologically the populations of wild potatoes Solanum cardiophyllum ssp. cardiophyllum and S. cardiophyllum ssp. ehrenbergii was carried out. An analysis of the morphology and the viability of pollen of these potato populations was also made. The results of the morphometric analysis indicate that both subspecies are phenetically different. The pollen grain shape and size in ssp. cardiophyllum are different in northern and southern populations. Pollen diameter is significantly different between subspecies. Based on these results we propose that these taxa should be considered as two separate species.  © 2002 The Linnean Society of London, Botanical Journal of the Linnean Society , 2002, 140 , 415–426.     

Karyology of some Brazilian species of Alismataceae

The family Alismataceae ( sensu Cronquist) comprises 11 genera and 75 species of aquatic and semiaquatic herbs. In Brazil, only the two most speciose genera, Echinodorus Rich. ex Engelm. and Sagittaria L., are present. The chromosome number 2 n  = 22 is common to all species. We present karyotypes for eight species, together with their asymmetry index (TF%) and total chromatin length (TCL). All karyotypes have high karyotypic asymmetry and TCL, due to their large and mostly acrocentric chromosomes. The chromosomal evolution of the Alismatidae group is discussed.  © 2003 The Linnean Society of London, Botanical Journal of the Linnean Society , 2003, 143 , 159−164.     

The morphology and relationships of the Sphaerosepalaceae (Malvales)

The comparative vegetative and reproductive morphology and anatomy of the Malagasy endemic family Sphaerosepalaceae is examined in light of two current competing hypotheses of relationship from recent molecular studies. Sphaerosepalaceae are similar to Thymelaeaceae on the basis of leaf architecture, calyx vasculature and in having endostomal micropyles. Comparisons with Tepuianthus and Thymelaeaceae subfamily Octolepidoideae are drawn on the basis of seed structure, indument type, perianth structure and pollen. Resin-filled, sclerenchymatous idioblasts, floral (positional) monosymmetry, a single series of stamen trunk bundles and a well-developed bixoid chalaza in the seed of Dialyceras parvifolium link Sphaerosepalaceae with its other putative sister group: a clade containing Bixaceae, Cochlospermaceae and Diegodendraceae. Synapomorphies of Sphaerosepalaceae include: fused, intrapetiolar stipules, embryo structure, pollen with endoapertures encompassing the ectoapertures and a tetramerous perianth. The extremely well-developed apical septum in the eusyncarpous gynoecium of Rhopalocarpus suggests that the gynoterminal style present in this genus has been secondarily derived from an ancestor with a fully syncarpous, basistylous gynoecium, as in Dialyceras . The morphological and evolutionary nature of basistylous and apically septate gynoecia is discussed. A rosette arrangement of ovules in each carpel coccus of D. coriaceum expands the bauplan concept of Sphaerosepalaceae and is probably unique among angiosperms as a whole.  © 2004 The Linnean Society of London, Botanical Journal of the Linnean Society , 2004, 144 , 1–40.     

Phylogenetic taxonomy of the Cercosaurini (Squamata: Gymnophthalmidae), with new genera for species of Neusticurus and Proctoporus

The tribe Cercosaurini is one of the most poorly studied groups of the lizard family Gymnophthalmidae. Recent studies have suggested that two cercosauriine genera, Neusticurus and Proctoporus , are polyphyletic. The aim of the current study was to rectify the polyphyletic relationships and construct a phylogenetic taxonomy of the Cercosaurini that is congruent with evolutionary history. Neusticurus is divided into two genera, one of them new ( Potamites ), based on the clades recovered by molecular studies and previously discussed morphological data. Proctoporus is divided into three genera, one of which is new ( Petracola ), while an older name ( Riama ) is resurrected for another. All five genera are described and defined and taxonomic keys are presented. This study represents an important advance in rectifying the taxonomy of the Cercosaurini. Many other para- and polyphyletic genera remain in the Gymnophthalmidae and much future work on this group is warranted.  © 2005 The Linnean Society of London, Zoological Journal of the Linnean Society , 2005, 143 , 405–416.     

A new species of Begonia (Begoniaceae) from Guangxi, China

Begonia gigabracteata H.Z. Li & H. Ma sp. nov. ( Begonia section Diploclinium , Begoniaceae) is described and illustrated from North Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, south-west China. Its chromosome number (2 n  = 30) and pollen and seed micromorphology are reported. This species grows in ravines on damp or slightly moist limestone. It is morphologically similar to B. summoglabra T.T. Yü (section Reichenheimia ) and B. labordei H. Lél. (section Diploclinium ). However, it differs by its sparse glandular hairs, number of perianth segments, colour of venation on the abaxial blade, and unique heteromorphous bracts. A line drawing and plate of B. gigabracteata and a photograph of the type of B. summoglabra are presented as an aid to identification.  © 2008 The Linnean Society of London, Botanical Journal of the Linnean Society , 2008, 157 , 83–90.     

A revised classification of subtribe Helianthinae (Asteraceae: Heliantheae). I. Basal lineages

Results for nuclear ITS sequences were combined with previously obtained data from cpDNA restriction site studies to provide a comprehensive molecular phylogeny for subtribe Helianthinae. Results from the two molecular data sets were mostly congruent for basally diverging branches of the subtribe. Based on the results, combined with morphological observations, the basally diverging branches are placed in six genera, including one newly described. Bahiopsis is resurrected to accommodate species previously placed in Viguiera subgenus Bahiopsis . Calanticaria is newly proposed for the five species of Viguiera ser. Brevifolieae . Heliomeris is retained for the group sometimes included within Viguiera as sect. Heliomeris . Hymenostephium is revived and enlarged to include a number of species of similar habit and involucre, including members of Viguiera sect. Diplostichis , Haploca-lymma and Garcilassa . Although cpDNA results place the morphologically distinctive Sclerocarpus within the clade including species of Hymenostephium , the ITS data were consistent with morphology in suggesting it to be a distinctive lineage.  © 2002 The Linnean Society of London, Botanical Journal of the Linnean Society , 2002, 140 , 65–76.