Abstract Detail

Systematics

Koenig, Nicholas [1], Ruhfel, Brad [2].

Phylogenetic placement of the endemic Kentucky clover (Trifolium kentuckiense).

Kentucky clover or Trifolium kentuckiense Chapel & Vincent (Fabaceae) was described in 2013 with a similar morphological appearance to buffalo clover (Trifolium reflexum). Until now there has been no phylogenetic analyses placing T. kentuckiense in the clover phylogeny. Using data from the nuclear (ITS) and plastid genomes (ndhA and trnL), we placed T. kentuckiense in a clade of native eastern North American clovers. Within this clade, T. kentuckiense is strongly supported in a subclade consisting of T. bejariense, T. carolinianum, and T. reflexum. Our results place T. kentuckiense sister to T. reflexum, but the relationship is not well supported. Between the plastid regions, ndhA is more informative than trnL, though ITS was more variable than either plastid region. We also provide an updated dichotomous key for species of clover in Kentucky and the surrounding states to aid in locating new populations of this rare species. Ongoing work by the Native Clover Conservation Working Group in coordination with the Office of Kentucky Nature Preserves (OKNP) will be summarised.

1 - University of Cambridge, Geography Department, UK
2 - University Of Michigan Herbarium, Research Museums Center, 3600 Varsity Drive, Ann Arbor, MI, 48108, United States

Keywords:
phylogenetics
Trifolium
Clover
Plastid
Endemic Species.

Presentation Type: Oral Paper
Number: SYST II003
Abstract ID:1031
Candidate for Awards:George R. Cooley Award