Genetic evidence supporting the taxonomy of Geum peckii (Rosaceae) and G-radiatum as separate species

The endangered Geum radiatum (Rosaceae) and G. peckii are morphologically s imilar species and may represent a single taxon. Both are alpine species en demic to the Appalachian Mountains of eastern North America. Geum radiatum is known only from mountains of North Carolina and Tennessee and G. peckii from the White Mountains, New Hampshire, and sea-level bogs in Nova Scotia. Since these species are at risk in Canada and the U.S.A., their taxonomic status is important for determining conservation strategies. Taxonomic iden tity of these species was investigated using molecular genetic techniques. Forty individual plants from throughout the known range of each species wer e analyzed using random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD). Cluster analysis and analysis of molecular variance clearly differentiate these species. Ret ention of the present classification as separate taxa is appropriate.