Evolutionary history of the genus Pistacia (Anacardiaceae)

Abstract

Pistacia L. belongs to the family Anacardiaceae (cashew family), order Sapindales. Pistacia vera L. (cultivated pistachio) is by far the most economically important species in the genus. It has edible seeds and considerable commercial importance. The evolutionary history and the phylogenetic relationships between species within the genus are not well understood. A better understanding of these relationships is needed to make the species more useful for plant improvement or genetic studies. The objective of this perpestective is to provide additional insight into understanding the evolutionary history of Pistacia. In conclusion, Pistacia is a monophyletic genus and it contains two sections (Lentiscella and Pistacia) and it is originated in the Paleocene epoch. This is based on Anacardiaceae being pantropical in distribution with North and South America representing major diversification centers of the family including the geographical distribution of Pistacia. This perspective provides additional insight into understanding the evolutionary history of the genus Pistacia to make the species more useful for plant improvement or genetic studies. © 2009 Asian Network for Scientific Information.