The taxonomy and phylogenetic position of Thomandersia

Journal article

The taxonomy and phylogenetic position of Thomandersia were investigated through a comprehensive study of herbarium specimens and analyses of DNA sequence and non-sequence data. Phylogenetic analysis of all available evidence placed Thomandersia within Lamiales but outside Acanthaceae, the family in which it has traditionally been classified. Moreover, Thomandersia is shown to be a morphologically distinct clade, lying outside all currently circumscribed families of Lamiales. We therefore propose resurrection of family Thomandersiaceae. Phylogenetic analyses provide moderate support for a sister group relationship between Thomandersiaceae and Schlegeliaceae. In addition, the morphological variation within and between species is described and six species are recognized. A new taxonomic treatment of these six species, including an improved key, descriptions, illustrations and distribution maps, is provided. © Copyright 2007 by the American Society of Plant Taxonomists.

Authors: Wortley, A; Harris, D; Scotland, R

• Publication status: Published
• Journal: SYSTEMATIC BOTANY
• Volume: 32
• Issue: 2
• Pages: 415-444
• Publication date: 2007-01-01
• DOI: 10.1600/036364407781179716
• EISSN: 1548-2324
• ISSN: 0363-6445
• Language: English
• Keywords: phylogeny; systematics; Thomandersiaceae; family; Acanthaceae; taxonomy