http://www.loc.gov/mods/v3 http://www.loc.gov/standards/mods/v3/mods-3-2.xsd
systematic study of Compsoneura (A.DC.) Warb., a neotropical member of the Nutmeg family (Myristicaceae)
xiv, 359 leaves : illustrations, maps ; 28 cm. + 1 CD-ROM.
Compsoneura is a genus of small to medium or sometimes large trees distributed primarily in the lowland wet forests of northern South America and Central America, from southern Brazil as far north as Veracruz, Mexico. The goal of this dissertation project, conducted between 1997-2000, was to produce a monographic treatment of Compsoneura using data from field, herbarium, and laboratory studies. Results of this study were various. A total of 18 species were recognized, including five new species (C. anoriense, C. canalis, C. densiflora, C. diazii, C. stymanthera) and a new combination (C. mexicana). In addition, the classification proposed by Warburg (1897) was revised, involving the description of a new generic section (Hadrocarpa) and broadened recognition of the Warburgian sections (section Coniostele was combined with section Compsoneura). Morphological and/or microsatellite analysis provided clarification of several species, the most significant of which is C. sprucei s.l. From C. sprucei s.l. was resurrected the previously synonymized name, Myristica mexicana Hems., as C. mexicana (Hems.) J. Janovec, to account for the Central American component of this once supposed widespread species. Based on this study, it appears that analysis of combined morphological and microsatellite datasets is a promising technique for systematic biology. Computer-based GIS mapping allowed continued investigation of geographic patterns exhibited by Compsoneura. Analysis of the qualitative dataset provided a first look at morphological trends and evolutionary relationships in this genus. However, combination of results from qualitative and quantitative analyses provided a better view of these patterns for selected species groups. The center of distribution and putative origin for this genus appears to be upper Amazonia. From there, patterns of radiation extend northwestward into Central America. The rise of the Andes Mountains during the Pleistocene is hypothesized to be of major importance in the diversification of the taxa studied.
Issued also on microfiche from University Microfilm Inc.
Includes bibliographical references (leaves 348-356).