Molecular systematics and biogeography of the Cardamine pratensis complex (Brassicaceae)

Representatives of the C. pratensis complex were analysed for allozymes, IT S, non-coding cpDNA, and RAPDs to elucidate phylogenetic relationships and the historical biogeography of this species group. Our concepts differ in s ome important aspects from current ideas. Two diploid species from southeas tern Europe form the Basal Group of the complex. A diploid from the Iberian Peninsula represents another old lineage. The phylogenetically younger Der ived Group comprises diploid taxa and all known polyploid tare. The two old lineages represent pleistocene relicts which were not involved in the form ation of the Derived Group. All polyploids evolved in postglacial time from diploids of the Derived Group which may have survived the glaciations in r efugia centered around and within the Alps. The arctic-circumpolar C. nyman ii is of young age and migrated to Scandinavia in postglacial times from so uth to north.