Chromosome numbers in the genus Lippia (Verbenaceae)

• Published in: Plant systematics and evolution Vol. 256; no. 1/4; pp. 171 - 178
• Main Authors: Viccini, L. F., Pierre, P. M. O., Praça, M. M., da Costa, D. C. Souza, da Costa Romanel, E., de Sousa, S. M., Peixoto, P. H. Pereira, Salimena, F. R. Gonçalves
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Springer 01.01.2006
• Subjects: Aneuploidy; Biological taxonomies; Chromosomes; Endemic species; Flower buds; Genera; Inflorescences; Ploidies; Polyploidy; Rubella
• ISSN: 0378-2697

The genus Lippia (Verbenaceae) comprises about 200 taxa mainly distributed in Brazil, Mexico, Central America, Africa, Argentina and Paraguay. Some problems involving the number and delimitation of species have been reported. In order to contribute to the solving of these problems, the chromosome numbers of 14 Lippia species are documented. The following species were collected at Espinhaço Range, Southeast Brazil: Section Zapania (L. corymbosa, L. diamantinensis, L. hermannioides, L. lacunosa, L. rotundifolia, L. rubella), section Rhodolippia (L. florida, L. lupulina, L. pseudothea, L. rosella), section Goniostlachyum (L. glandulosa, L. pohliana, L. sidoides) and section Dioicolippia (L. filifolia). Immature inflorescences were collected and the ideal size for chromosome observation was determined. The majority of species have a haploid chromosome number from 10 to 14. Few species have a higher chromosome number, which suggests the occurrence of polyploidy. The relationships between chromosome numbers and the taxonomic sections are also discussed.