Biogeographical history and diversification ofPetuniaandCalibrachoa(Solanaceae) in the Neotropical Pampas grassland

摘要: The Pampas in the southern Neotropics is a vast region with vegetation composed mainly of grasses, and it may be least-studied ecosystem South America. Contrary to what was thought until recently, this heterogeneous harbours rich biodiversity many endemic species; however, little known about current geographical distribution evolution its plants. Here, we present results from phylogeographical studies on two genera typical open environments (Petunia Calibrachoa) that occur both high-altitude grasslands Brazil. rapid radiations Petunia Calibrachoa are examples how strong selective pressures for different pollinators, coupled adaptation edaphic climatic differences, drive diversification plants Pampas. We also discuss factors could have affected driven speciation environment. Further studies, including some focusing other taxa, required characterize plant species more accurately. © 2012 Linnean Society London, Botanical Journal Society, 2012, ••, ••–••.