Phylogenetics and chromosomal evolution in the Poaceae (grasses)

Abstract

The wide range in basic chromosome number (x = 2–18) and prevalence of polyploidy and hybridisation have resulted in contrasting views on chromosomal evolution in Poaceae. This study uses information on grass chromosome number and a consensus phylogeny to determine patterns of chromosomal evolution in the family. A chromosomal parsimony hypothesis is proposed that underscores (1) the evolution of the Joinvilleaceae/Ecdeiocoleaceae/Poaceae lineage from Restionaceae ancestors with x = 9, (2) aneuploid origin of x = 11 in Ecdeiocoleaceae and Poaceae (Streptochaeta, Anomochlooideae), (3) reduction to x = 9, followed by chromosome doubling within Anomochlooideae to generate the x = 18 in Anomochloa, and (4) aneuploid increase from the ancestral x = 11 to x = 12 in Pharoideae and Puelioideae, and further diversification in remaining taxa (Fig. 3b). Higher basic chromosome numbers are maintained in basal taxa of all grass subfamilies, whereas smaller numbers are found in terminal species. This finding refutes the 'secondary polyploidy hypothesis', but partially supports the 'reduction hypothesis' previously proposed for chromosomal evolution in the Poaceae.