Interspecific and Phylogenetic Relationships in the Genus Campanula L. s. str. (Campanulaceae): Karyological Approach

Abstract

Chromosome numbers were determined and karyotypes were analyzed in 54 individuals from 9 populations representing 9 species of Campanula viz. C. alliariaefolia, C. carpatica, C. glomerata, C. lactiflora, C. raddeana, C. rigidipila, C. rotundifolia, C. siegizmundi and C. trachelium. The recorded diploid chromosome number in all the populations examined was 2n 2x 34, except in C. glomerata (2n 2x 30) and C. rotundifolia (2n 4x 68). Chromosome numbers in each of C. rigidipila and C. siegizmundi are scored for the first time, whereas those of the other species had confirmed previous reports. The karyotype parameters used were significantly differentiated in the species and the interspecific relationships were consistent with the current taxonomic delimitation's. The evolutionary trends of the species based on their chromosomal data in relation to the morphological attributes and the geographical distribution were assessed.