MERMELL, LESLY P.* AND TINA J. AYERS. Department of Biological Sciences, Box 5640, Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff, AZ 86011-5640. - Use of nrITS sequence data for phylogenetic analysis of the Lysipomia sphagnophila (Campanulaceae) species complex.
All members of the genus Lysipomia (Campanulaceae) are
endemic to high elevations (~3,000 m) of the Andean mountain chain of
South America, making this genus a unique member of the bellflower
family. Lysipomia sphagnophila along with a small number of
additional species appeared to form a monophyletic group within this
genus in a preliminary phylogenetic analysis based on ITS sequence
data. Due to a high degree of morphological similarity, species and
subspecies delimitations within this complex remain tentative. nrITS
sequence data may aid in clarifying species and subspecies
relationships as well as in determining the possible monophyly of this
group. ITS data may also be useful in a biogeographical
interpretation of this complex including aspects such as species
origin and subsequent radiation. Sequences for the entire ITS and
accompanying 5.8S region of nrDNA were obtained for all members of
this complex by direct double-stranded sequencing of PCR amplified
DNA. Results of this phylogenetic analysis will be presented.
Key words: Lysipomia sphagnophila , biogeography, ITS, nrDNA, phylogeny