The Genus Ernodea (Rubiaceae) in the Caribbean Basin. I. Allozyme Variation and Mating Systems

摘要: Ernodea consists of nine historically recognized species, most which are endemic to the Bahamian Archipelago. The species quite diverse morphologically, and their boundaries difficult identify because intermediate forms. As part a comprehensive investigation evolution taxonomy genus, populations five taxa were studied on Great Abaco Inagua (Bahamas) Puerto Rico. Starch gel electrophoresis was performed leaf extracts 13 scorable loci examined. fixed for same allele across 12 these loci. one variable locus showed variation that appears be more highly correlated with geography rather than morphology. These data provide no evidence genetic barriers among species. Hand-pollination experiments tested apomixis, selfing, outcrossing, inter-specific fertility. suggested there reproductive between have mixed-mating system. accumulated in this study do not support, but neither can they refute, recognition distinctive genus.