XVI International Botanical Congess

The systematics of Sphaerocardamum (Cruciferae) is addressed to test the monophyly of the genus and to establish its phylogenetic relationships within the family and among its species. Chloroplast ndhF and trnL intron data are used to establish family level relationships and as an initial test of monophyly. Morphological and DNA sequence data sources (including pistillata intron, ITS, and cp trnL intron/trnL-F spacer) are integrated from a denser taxon sample as a further test of monophyly, to establish species level phylogenetic hypotheses, and to aid in species delimitation. Aspects of morphological character evolution are studied in this phylogenetic context. Preliminary results identify a monophyletic Sphaerocardamum nested within a primarily Mexican clade that includes members of Halimolobos, Mancoa, and Pennellia.