Chromosomal criteria and taxonomic relationships in the genus Lathyrus (Fabaceae)

Abstract

Taxonomic relationships in eight species belonging to five of the nine currently recognized sections of the genus Lathyrus have been discussed and their phylogeny based on chromosomal criteria is suggested. A diploid number of 2n = 14 (x = 7) has been found in all species studied and x = 7 is confirmed as the basic number in the genus. Karyotypes of the examined species have metacentric and submetacentric chromosomes that are variable in length. The retention of L. pratensis in the section Pratensis is suggested. The transferring of L. hirsutus in section Cicercula and the placement of L. cicera & L. sativus in section Clymenum are supported. The present data revealed that L. pratensis is the most likely the ancestral type in the genus and that Layhyrus represents a natural monophyletic group in the tribe Vicieae.