Molecular evidence for convergent evolution and allopolyploid speciation within the Physcomitrium-Physcomitrella species complex
11.07.2014
Beike AK, von Stackelberg M, Schallenberg-Rüdinger M, Hanke ST, Follo M, Quandt D, McDaniel SF, Reski R, Tan BC, Rensing SA.
BMC Evol Biol. 2014 Jul 11;14:158.
Here, we propose a revised classification of the previously described four subspecies of Physcomitrella patens into three distinct species, namely Physcomitrella patens, Physcomitrella readeri and Physcomitrella magdalenae. We argue that secondary reduction of sporophyte complexity in these species is due to the establishment of an ecological niche, namely spores resting in mud and possible spore dispersal by migratory birds.
