A phylogeny inferred from large ribosomal subunit (26S) rDNA sequences suggests that Cuscuta is a derived member of Convolvulaceae

Cuscuta is a parasitic angiosperm that has been considered alternatively ei ther as a genus within Convolvulaceae or as a monogeneric family in its own right. Although typically placed in the Solanales, Cuscuta has also been p ositioned within the Polemoniales. Extreme reduction of morphological and a natomical characters, as well as chloroplast genome reductions and rearrang ements, has made the phylogenetic placement of Cuscuta uncertain. Analysis of 26S rDNA sequences suggests that Cuscuta is a derived member of Convolvu laceae. Molecular results are discussed in relation to the morphological an d anatomical characters of autotrophic members of Convolvulaceae.