Diversification of Myco-Heterotrophic Plants in Burmanniaceae
Author Information
Author(s): Vincent Merckx, Lars W. Chatrou, Benny Lemaire, Moses N. Sainge, Suzy Huysmans, Erik F. Smets
Primary Institution: K.U. Leuven
Hypothesis
How did the myco-heterotrophic family Burmanniaceae diversify and migrate?
Conclusion
The diversity and distribution of Burmanniaceae are the result of diversification and migration during the Eocene when tropical rainforests expanded.
Supporting Evidence
- Burmanniaceae originated in West Gondwana and diversified during the Late Cretaceous.
- Diversification began during the Eocene when global temperatures peaked.
- Migration from the New to the Old World occurred via boreotropical routes.
- Oligocene cooling ended New-Old World migration and decreased diversification rates.
Takeaway
Some plants get their food from fungi instead of sunlight. This study shows how a group of these plants spread around the world a long time ago.
Methodology
Phylogenetic inference, biogeographical analyses, molecular divergence time estimates, and diversification analyses were used.
Potential Biases
Potential biases from using secondary calibration points for molecular dating.
Limitations
The study's conclusions are based on molecular dating, which can be affected by poor taxon sampling and calibration point errors.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.0004
Confidence Interval
95% CI: 139–1708
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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