Phylogeny of Stelis Sw. sensu lato (Pleurothallidinae, Orchidaceae), with emphasis to the Brazilian species

• Grant number: 14/03257-5
• Support Opportunities: Research Grants - Visiting Researcher Grant - International
• Start date: May 20, 2014
• End date: June 10, 2014
• Field of knowledge: Biological Sciences - Botany - Plant Taxonomy
• Principal Investigator: Fábio de Barros
• Grantee: Fábio de Barros
• Visiting researcher: Aniceto Rodolfo Solano Gómez
• Visiting researcher institution: Instituto Politécnico Nacional (IPN), Mexico
• Host Institution: Instituto de Botânica. Secretaria de Meio Ambiente, Infraestrutura e Logística (São Paulo - Estado). São Paulo , SP, Brazil

Abstract

The genus Stelis, belonging to subtribe Pleurothallidinae and one of the largest within the orchid family, has been included in two contradictory taxonomic systems, one with a very broad definition (Stelis sensu lato), which recognizes the genus as a group with great diversity and any apparent morphological synapomorphies, and another that considers a conservative definition of the genus (Stelis sensu stricto) which recognizes it as a morphologically homogeneous group, unlike other groups, which are treated as separate genera. In part, these contradictons in the boundaries among the genera, are due to poor sampling of taxa within some groups of Stelis sensu lato, especially Brazilian species, as well as the use of markers which provide little phylogenetic resolution for the relationships between them. The objective of this project is to allow the visit of Dr. Rodolfo Solano Aniceto Gómez, from the "Universidad Nacional Autonoma de Mexico", a reputed specialist in Stelis and related genera, with good experience in the phylogeny of the subtribe Pleurothallidinae, in order to establish a partnership aimed at inclusion Brazilian species of Stelis in the phylogeny of the genus (and of Pleurothaliidinae as a whole). In addition, Dr. Solano would teach a course in the Post Graduate Program in Plant Biodiversity and Environment of the Institute of Botany (open to participants from other institutions), and participate in the defense of the thesis of a student of that program. The visit also was an opportunity Dr. Solano to visit the herbarium of the Institute of Botany to analyze the material of Stelis housed there, and also to discuss thesis projects with students in the program. (AU)