Genetic diversity of Phlomoides laciniata complex using ISSR markers in Iran

Phlomoides laciniata (L.) Kamelin & Makhm. along with P. labiosiformis (Popov) Adylov, Kamelin & Makhm., P.azerbaijanica (Rech.) Kamelin & Makhm, P. tournefortii(Jaub. & Spach) Kamelin & Makhm. and P. laevigata (Bunge) Kamelin & Makhm. are five important species of P. laciniata species complex. Most of these species are widely distributed in the subalpine area of Iran and adjacent countries. Taxonomic problems regarding these species are mainly due to delimitation from their relatives and possible conspicuity with their related taxa. Therefore, we prefer to use the term species complex instead of species for all taxa until the taxonomic borders in these groups are clarified. 135 individuals belonging to 15 populations are representing five species complex were collected. In total, 9 ISSR primers were tested in different populations. In conclusion, based on the ISSR variation analysis depicting a narrow specific concept in this group is not justified. Moreover, their similarities in morphological characters such as plants height, the shape of leaves and their division, calyx, bract, corolla, and trichomes confirm the ISSR results

Keywords:

Phlomoides laciniata , ISSR markers , morphological characters , Lamiaceae