Phylogenetic Study of the Genus Phalaris L. (Poaceae) based on Nuclear Internal Transcript Region (ITS) in Iraq

Abstract

This study was conducted to investigate the genetic genotype pattern for the five species of the Phalaris (Poaceae) family in Iraq. By using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and sequencing of the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) of nuclear ribosomal DNA technique. Anthoxanthum monticola is used as an out group. The result of the analysis of sequences and drawing the phylogenetic tree showed cluster analysis of the Phalaris species. The P.brachystachys form the basal lineage in the dendrogram. Sister clade to P.brachystachys is P.arundinacea, the three other P.tuberosa, P.paradoxa, and P.minor descendent in one main clade which divides into two secondary clades. P.tuberosa subclade and P.paradoxa & P.minor subclade. Finally, the monophylly of each clade is well supported.