Abstract Detail

Systematics Section / ASPT

Morris, Julie A. [1], Schwarzbach, Andrea E. [1], Adams, Robert P. [2].

Characterization and phylogenetic utility of a highly variable chloroplast region in the genus Juniperus.

Plant phylogenetic studies at low taxonomic levels are often hampered by a lack of reliable markers having suitable amounts of variation. In this study, we characterize the trnC (tRNA-Cys) - trnD (tRNA-Asp) region of the chloroplast and discuss its potential phylogenetic utility in the genus Juniperus. Flanking primers for the amplification of trnC-trnD have been used in PCR-RFLP studies in plants, however very little comparative sequencing information has been reported. Using these primers, PCR was conducted for 20 representative species of Juniperus and two outgroup taxa. In each case, a single PCR product was amplified ranging from 1239-1656 bp in length. Sequencing of this fragment required the design of six additional internal primers. For comparison, nrITS (ITS1, 5.8S, ITS2) was sequenced for the same individuals. Excluding gaps, the trnC-trnD region produced trees with similar resolution to those produced using ITS. One major difference found was the frequency and average length of gaps. The trnC-trnD region contained a larger number of gaps, and the average length of insertions and deletions was increased when compared to ITS.

1 - Kent State University, Department of Biological Sciences, 256 Cunningham Hall, Kent, Ohio, 44242, USA
2 - Baylor University, Biology Department, P.O. Box 97388, Waco, Texas, 76798, USA

Keywords:
Cupressaceae
Juniperus
trnC-D.

Presentation Type: Poster
Session: 32-74
Location: Special Event Center (Cliff Lodge)
Date: Tuesday, August 3rd, 2004
Time: 12:30 PM
Abstract ID:341