XVI International Botanical Congess

Molecular and morphological studies of Ericaceae have revealed that some morphological features previously used as indicative of relationship are homoplastic. Other morphological features have been discovered that provide good synapomorphies for major groups of ericads. Combined analysis of morphology and molecular data has shown that characters such as timing of anther inversion during floral development, ovary position, and bisporangiate anthers are reliable indicators of relationship. In contrast the presence of fleshy fruits has arisen at least three times within Ericaceae (Arbutoideae, Epacridoideae (Styphelieae), and Vaccinioideae (Vaccinieae). Likewise, ericoid leaves have likely arisen more than once within Ericaceae, although generally restricted to the Ericoideae (including Rhododendroideae). Variation in floral morphology and fruit type suggests that diversification within the family may be due in large part to adaptations to a variety of pollination syndromes and dispersal strategies.