CYTOEVOLUTION, PHYLOGENY AND TAXONOMY IN EPACRIDACEAE

Chromosome numbers in Epacridaceae were collated from various authors and superimposed on to recent cladograms for the family. The results s trongly indicate that reduction in chromosome number occurs with evolu tionary advancement. Thus Epacridaceae, in common with 'Ericaceae sens . strict.' and 'Vacciniaceae sens. strict.', has evolved from a primit ive karyotype of at least x = 12 and probably x = 13. This conclusion dispels earlier paleopolyploid models based on a primitive x = 6 in th e family. Other aspects of cytoevolution, such as chromosome number as a generic character especially in cytologically advanced genera of th e Styphelieae, are discussed. (C) 1997 Annals of Botany Company.