Cytogenetic characterization of endemics: past and future

Abstract

Following an overview of the classification scheme for endemic species, the authors propose to complement it based on modern molecular cytogenetic techniques. Molecular cytogenetics provides new possibilities in the study of chromosomal evolution and genome organization, and contributes to a better characterization of the karyotype of endemic species. Through several examples, the authors demonstrate the advantages of molecular cytogenetic techniques in resolving relationships between endemic and related species, leading to a more precise categorisation, especially in the absence of polyploidy. The authors recommend some caution in the interpretation of cytogenetic data alone, and stress the importance of comparing cytogenetic results with those obtained from independent sources (i.e., molecular phylogenetics, phytogeography, ecology). Finally, the current classification of endemic species is revised in the light of molecular cytogenetics and other newly available evidence.

Keywords:

• Apoendemics
• paleoendemics sensu stricto
• paleo-polyploids
• patroendemics
• schizoendemics