Phylogeny of the Cyclanthaceae

Abstract

The affinities of Cyclanthaceae are discussed, and it is concluded that the sister-group to this family is most probably Pandanaceae. A hypothesis of generic relationships in Cyclanthaceae, based on cladistic methods, is presented. Bootstrap analysis and Bremer support ("decay" index) have been used to test the strength of individual clades, and the result is compared with previously made phylogenetic analyses. The Sphaeradenia group (Chorigyne, Stelestylis, Sphaeradenia, and Ludovia) is supported as monophyletic and acceptably resolved, while the Asplundia group (remaining genera in Carludovicoideae) may be paraphyletic, with largely uncertain relationships. A formal recognition of these groups is therefore not justified. The probable character evolution in Carludovicoideae is discussed. © 1994 Springer-Verlag.