| Abstract Detail
Hurlbut, Diana [1], Best, Amanda [1], Monfils, Anna K. [1]. Molecular and Morphological Variation in the Schoenoplectus pungens species complex (Cyperaceae). Schoenoplectus (Rchb.) Palla, commonly known as bulrush, is a globally distributed genus of plants occurring in marsh and wetland habitats. Field identification of species in the S. pungens species complex (composed of S. americanus, S. deltarum, and S. pungens) has been persistently difficult, as species are defined based on few cryptic characters. Prior to this study few molecular or morphological analyses have been performed to examine variation in this species complex and none have looked at the complex as a whole. This project aims to describe species delimitations and biodiversity in the S. pungens species complex using molecular and morphological techniques. In this study, molecular variation was assessed using two independent data sets: sequences from the nrITS region and the chloroplast trnT-L-F spacer regions. Preliminary results indicate that there is intra-specific sequence variation useful in identifying species. To define key morphological features of each species, floral traits and stem morphology were compared using light and scanning electron microscopy. Preliminary results indicate the length of the scale tip is a key morphological feature for species identification in the complex. Both molecular and morphological techniques provide data which aid in proper species identification and help clarify species boundaries. Understanding biodiversity of this unique group of wetland plants is important in conserving diversity and describing the unique flora of wetland habitats.
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1 - Central Michigan University, Department of Biology, Brooks Hall, Mount Pleasant, MI, 48859
Keywords:
Cyperaceae
Schoenoplectus
Species complex.
Presentation Type: Array
Session: TBA
Location: Exhibit Hall (Northeast, Southwest & Southeast)/Hilton
Date: Sunday, July 8th, 2007
Time: 8:00 AM
Number: 063
Abstract ID:1378 |
