Alseodaphnopsis: A new genus of Lauraceae based on molecular and morphological evidence

Publication Type:Journal Article
Year of Publication:2017
Authors:Y. -qing Mo, Li, L., Li, J. -wu, Rohwer, J. G., Li, H. - W., Li, J.
Journal:PLoS ONE
Volume:12
Issue:10
Start Page:e0186545
Pagination:e0186545
Date Published:10/2017
Abstract:

An investigation of a questionable species of the genus Alseodaphne led to the discovery of a new genus Alseodaphnopsis H. W. Li & J. Li, gen. nov., separated from Alseodaphne Nees, and a new species Alseodaphnopsis ximengensis H. W. Li & J. Li, sp. nov., endemic to Yunnan province, China. This new species is characterized by having big, axillary, paniculate inflorescences, as well as large, subglobose fruits. Based on DNA sequence data from two gene regions (nuclear ribosomal ITS and LEAFY intron II), we investigate its phylogenetic position within the Persea group. Phylogenies using maximum parsimony (MP) and Bayesian inference (BI) support the recognition of Alseodaphnopsis as a distinct genus but do not resolve well its relationship within the Persea group. The new genus is circumscribed, eight new combinations for its species are made, and a description and illustration of the new species are provided.

DOI:10.1371/journal.pone.0186545
Short Title:PLoS ONE
Refereed Designation:Refereed
Scratchpads developed and conceived by (alphabetical): Ed Baker, Katherine Bouton Alice Heaton Dimitris Koureas, Laurence Livermore, Dave Roberts, Simon Rycroft, Ben Scott, Vince Smith