Phylogenetic relationships and character evolution in tribe Lycieae (Solanaceae)

This project examines evolutionary relationships among three closely-related genera in the tomato family (Solanaceae), with an emphasis on the largest genus Lycium. The genus Lycium has been intensely studied in recent years, most notably with regard to breeding system evolution, the ecology of species interactions, the molecular evolution of genetic incompatibility, and the discovery of compounds with potential medicinal utility. Such studies will provide many opportunities to apply knowledge of evolutionary relationships and will facilitate collaborations with colleagues in Africa, Mexico, and South America.

Thesis students are responsible for DNA extraction, development of appropriate molecular markers, primer design, PCR, and sequencing of selected plant taxa. In addition, students will edit, align, and analyze molecular sequence data with the goal of uncovering phylogenetic relationships among a set of Lycium species.

A diverse set of questions can then be addressed within a phylogenetic context. For example, students can explore molecular evolution of selected markers, or make inferences about the historical biogeography of Lycium. In addition, students may be able to infer hybridization among species and the effects such reticulate patterns have on the reconstruction of plant phylogenies.

This work is supported by the National Science Foundation   Check out project LycieaeWeb here.