Molecular phylogeny of Atractocarpus (Rubiaceae): taxonomic implications for several New Caledonian Gardenieae species

Background and aims – New Caledonia is a hotspot of biodiversity in the world. Among most diverse Caledonian plant families Rubiaceae, which consist 30 genera containing 220 species, with level endemism 93%. The tribe Gardenieae represented by four genera, Gardenia (8 species), Aidia (2 Randia (7 Atractocarpus (10 species). As has now been restricted to Neotropics, species remain unplaced within tribe. Pacific genus, easily characterized long imbricated stipules, feature also present several Caledonia. study are test monophyly assess phylogenetic placement stipules specifically their relationships taxa Porterandia group belongs. Material methods We investigated 63 Gardenieae, focus on group, Bayesian reconstruction (cpDNA: trnTF rpl32, nrDNA: ITS). Key results Our provides mostly supported consensus tree topology group. Five seven fall clade that comprises rendering both polyphyletic. Conclusion enlarge delimitation include 12 species. consequently confirmed as centre diversity for 31 According our study, three occur archipelago: Aidia, Gardenia, Atractocarpus.