Cited by 452Chromosomal and Genetic VariationsPlant Taxonomy and PhylogeneticsPlant Diversity and Evolution

Autopolyploidy in angiosperms: Have we grossly underestimated the number of species?

Pamela S. Soltis, Pamela S. Soltis, Douglas W. Schemske, James F. Hancock, John N. Thompson, Brian C. Husband, Walter S. Judd·2007·Taxon

Abstract

Many species comprise multiple cytotypes that represent autopolyploids, or presumed autopolyploids, of the basic diploid cytotype. However, rarely has an autopolyploid been formally named and considered to represent a species distinct from its diploid progenitor (Zea diploperennis and Z. perennis represent a rare example). The major reasons why autopolyploids have not been named as distinct species are: (1) tradition of including multiple cytotypes in a single named species; and (2) tradition and convenience of adhering to a broad morphology-based taxonomic (or phenetic) species concept. As a result, plant biologists have underrepresented the distinct biological entities that actually exist in nature. Although it may seem practical to include morphologically highly similar cytotypes in one species, this practice obscures insights into evolution and speciation and hinders conservation. However, we do not suggest that all cytotypes should be named; each case must be carefully considered. A number of species comprising multiple cytotypes have been thoroughly investigated. Drawing on the literature, as well as our own experience with several autopolyploids (Tolmiea menziesii, Galax urceolata, Chamerion angustifolium, Heuchera grossulariifolia, Vaccinium corymbosum), we reassess the traditional view of plant autopolyploids as mere cytotypes. When considered carefully, many unnamed autopolyploids fulfill the requirements of multiple species concepts, including the biological, taxonomic, diagnosability, apomorphic, and evolutionary species concepts. Compared to the diploid parent, the autopolyploids noted above possess distinct geographic ranges, can be distinguished morphologically, and are largely reproductively isolated (via a diversity of mechanisms including reproductive and ecological isolation). These five autopolyploids (and probably many others) represent distinct evolutionary lineages; we therefore suggest that they be considered distinct species and also provide a system for naming them.

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Crossref · 10.2307/25065732

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  • Autopolyploids are as common as allopolyploids.

    “Evidence from phylogenetics and cytology has changed this view, showing instead that autopolyploids are as common as allopolyploids (Soltis et al., 2007; Barker et al., 2016a).”

    From Genomics of plant speciation (2023) · cites this paper as Soltis et al., 2007

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Authors
Soltis, P. S., Soltis, P. S., Schemske, D. W., Hancock, J. F., Thompson, J. N., Husband, B. C., & Judd, W. S.
Affiliations
  • University of Florida (US)
  • Florida Museum of Natural History (US)
  • Michigan State University (US)
  • University of California, Santa Cruz (US)
  • University of Guelph (CA)
Venue
Taxon
Published
2007-02-01
Volume
56
Issue
1
Pages
13-30
ISSN
0040-0262 (ISSN-L)
OpenAlex
W129302041
Cited by
452
References
137
Citations by year
2026: 6 · 2025: 8 · 2024: 14 · 2023: 24 · 2022: 20 · 2021: 14 · 2020: 30 · 2019: 24 · 2018: 31 · 2017: 36 · 2016: 23 · 2015: 25 · 2014: 29 · 2013: 20 · 2012: 37
Type
paratext
Language
en
Open access
closed
Locations
Taxon
Topics
  • Life Sciences › Agricultural and Biological Sciences › Plant Science › Chromosomal and Genetic Variations
  • Life Sciences › Agricultural and Biological Sciences › Ecology, Evolution, Behavior and Systematics › Plant Taxonomy and Phylogenetics
  • Life Sciences › Agricultural and Biological Sciences › Ecology, Evolution, Behavior and Systematics › Plant Diversity and Evolution
Keywords
autopolyploidy, cytotypes, species delimitation, plant taxonomy, species concept, speciation, reproductive isolation, flowering plants, Tolmiea menziesii, Chamaenerion angustifolium, Vaccinium corymbosum

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