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Premise: Seed germination involves risk; post‐germination conditions might not allow survival and reproduction. Variable, stressful environments favor seeds with germination that avoids risk (e.g., germination in conditions predicting success), spreads risk (e.g., dormancy), or escapes risk (e.g., rapid germination). Germination studies often investigate trait correlations with climate features linked to variation in post‐germination reproductive success. Rarely are long‐term records of population reproductive success available. Methods: Supported by demographic and climate monitoring, we analyzed germination in the California winter‐annual Clarkia xantiana subsp. xantiana. Sowing seeds of 10 populations across controlled levels of water potential and temperature, we estimated temperature‐specific base water potential for 20% germination, germination time weighted by water potential above base (hydrotime), and a dormancy index (frequency of viable, ungerminated seeds). Mixed‐effects models analyzed responses to (1) temperature, (2) discrete variation in reproductive success (presence or absence of years with zero seed production by a population), and (3) climate covariates, mean winter precipitation and coefficient of variation (CV) of spring precipitation. For six populations, records enabled analysis with a continuous metric of variable reproduction, the CV of per‐capita reproductive success. Results: Populations with more variable reproductive success had higher base water potential and dormancy. Higher base water potential and faster germination occurred at warmer experimental temperatures and in seeds of populations with wetter winters. Conclusions: Geographic variation in seed germination in this species suggests local adaptation to demographic risk and rainfall. High base water potential and dormancy may concentrate germination in years likely to allow reproduction, while spreading risk among years. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Oenothera rosea L'Her Ex. Aiton, presenting antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities, is traditionally used to treat bruises and headaches and as a healing agent. This study aimed to investigate whether its organic fraction (EAOr) has neuroprotective properties against neuroinflammation in the context of ischemia/reperfusion. Methods: The chemical composition of EAOr was determined using HPLC techniques, and its neuroprotective activities were evaluated in a common carotid-artery ligation model for the induction of ischemia/reperfusion (I/R). The animals were supplemented with EAOR for 15 days. On the last day, the animals were rested for one hour, following which the common carotid-artery ligation procedure was performed to induce I/R. The neurological deficit was evaluated at 24 h after I/R using Bederson's scale, and the relative expression of inflammatory genes and structure of hippocampal neurons were analyzed at 48 h. Results: The chemical analysis revealed five major compounds in EAOr: gallic acid, rutin, ellagic acid, and glucoside and rhamnoside quercetin. EAOr prevented neurological deficit 24 h after I/R; led to the early activation of the AIF and GFAP genes; reduced Nfkb1, IL-1beta, Il-6 and Casp3 gene expression; and protected hippocampal neurons. Conclusions: Our findings demonstrate that EAOr contains polyphenol-type compounds, which could exert a therapeutic effect through the inhibition of neuroinflammation and neuronal death genes, thus maintaining hippocampal neurons. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Premise: The proportion of polyploid plants in a community increases with latitude, and different hypotheses have been proposed about which factors drive this pattern. Here, we aimed to understand the historical causes of the latitudinal polyploidy gradient using a combination of ancestral state reconstruction methods. Specifically, we assessed whether (1) polyploidization enables movement to higher latitudes (i.e., polyploidization precedes occurrences in higher latitudes) or (2) higher latitudes facilitate polyploidization (i.e., occurrence in higher latitudes precedes polyploidization). Methods: We reconstructed the ploidy states and ancestral niches of 1032 angiosperm species at four paleoclimatic time slices ranging from 3.3 million years ago to the present, comprising taxa from four well‐represented clades: Onagraceae, Primulaceae, Solanum (Solanaceae), and Pooideae (Poaceae). We used ancestral niche reconstruction models alongside a customized discrete character evolution model to allow reconstruction of states at specific time slices. Patterns of latitudinal movement were reconstructed and compared in relation to inferred ploidy shifts. Results: No single hypothesis applied equally well across all analyzed clades. While significant differences in median latitudinal occurrence were detected in the largest clade, Poaceae, no significant differences were detected in latitudinal movement in any clade. Conclusions: Our preliminary study is the first to attempt to connect ploidy changes to continuous latitudinal movement, but we cannot favor one hypothesis over another. Given that patterns seem to be clade‐specific, more clades must be analyzed in future studies for generalities to be drawn. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Considering the different side effects of the long-time conventional anti-rheumatic drugs prescribed for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, numerous studies have focused on herbal medicines to reduce inflammation in autoimmune diseases. Although the beneficial properties of evening primrose on rheumatoid arthritis have been determined, the results of the studies have not been systematically reported. The present review has investigated the effects of evening primrose on rheumatoid arthritis systematically. We searched the following electronic databases until March 2023: PubMed, the Cochrane Library, the China National Knowledge Infrastructure, Scopus, ProQuest, Google Scholar electronic databases, allied and complementary medicine database (AMED), and scientific information database (SID) databases for relevant studies. We excluded non-English articles and those not meeting our criteria. We chose all of the correlated original clinical, animal, and in vitro studies. Each article was assessed critically for the possible risk of bias. Thirteen articles were analyzed. Animal and in vitro research confirmed the desired effects of evening primrose on clinical, inflammatory, oxidative, and immunologic factors in rheumatoid arthritis. Also, the results of clinical studies showed the change and improvement of inflammatory and oxidative biomarkers in rheumatoid arthritis. Evening primrose could control rheumatoid arthritis in multiple ways such as decreasing inflammation, inhibiting oxidative stress, and modulating the immune system. This article provides convincing evidence to support the efficacy of evening primrose in rheumatoid arthritis and explains the significance of future clinical trials. Further large-scale high-quality randomized controlled trials (RCTs) assessing the efficacy of evening primrose on rheumatoid arthritis as a primary outcome variable are recommended.

Lopezia guerrerensis is described as a new species for the flora of the state of Guerrero, Mexico. It is similar to the species of the Lopezia miniata complex, but is distinguished from them by its habit (subshrubs or shrubs to 3.5 m tall), whorled leaves (three per node) with brochidodromous venation and 12–14 (–17) secondary veins per side, flowers with larger lower petals and a longer fertile stamen, and inflorescences in corymbiform racemes, these axillary or grouped together in terminal panicles. For section Lopezia and the tribe Lopeziae, two new characters are added: whorled leaves (three per node) and whorled inflorescences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractLudwigia adscendens (L.) Hara, 1953 (L. adscendens) belongs to the family Onagraceae, which is a traditional medicinal plant distributed worldwide. In this study, the first complete chloroplast genome of L. adscendens was sequenced and assembled. The assembled chloroplast genome of L. adscendens is 159,560 bp in length, containing a pair of inverted repeat region A (IRA) of 24,762 bp, inverted repeat region B (IRB) of 24,762 bp, separated by a large single-copy (LSC) sequence of 90,276 bp and a small single-copy (SSC) region of 19, 760 bp, respectively. A total of 129 genes were annotated in the entire chloroplast genome, consisting of 37 transfer RNA (tRNA) genes, 8 ribosomal RNA (rRNA) genes, and 84 protein-coding genes, with a total GC content of 37.27%. The phylogenomic analysis showed that L. adscendens was closely related to L. octovalvis in the Onagraceae family. Further evolutionary studies of the genus Ludwigia could benefit from the complete chloroplast genome of L. adscendens present in this study and the obtained results would provide useful information for future phylogenetic, taxonomic, and evolutionary studies on Onagraceae.

We determined the complete chloroplast genome sequence of Epilobium parviflorum Schreb. The genome is 161,284 bp in length [including a large single copy (LSC): 89,063 bp; a small single copy (SSC): 17,323 bp; and two inverted repeat (IR) regions: 27,499 bp] with 38.1% GC content and contains 84 coding genes (CDS), 37 transfer RNA genes, and 8 rRNA genes. Among them, infA was annotated as a pseudogene. The maximum-likelihood analysis based on CDS sequences of chloroplast genomes was conducted for investigating the phylogenetic relationship among Epilobium and related species. The results showed a close relationship between E. parviflorum and E. hirsutum L. Our study added new genetic information of E. parviflorum and helped to understand the relationship with related species and evolutionary history in Onagraceae.

Background: Oenothera rosea L’Her Ex. Aiton, presenting antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities, is traditionally used to treat bruises and headaches and as a healing agent. This study aimed to investigate whether its organic fraction (EAOr) has neuroprotective properties against neuroinflammation in the context of ischemia/reperfusion. Methods: The chemical composition of EAOr was determined using HPLC techniques, and its neuroprotective activities were evaluated in a common carotid-artery ligation model for the induction of ischemia/reperfusion (I/R). The animals were supplemented with EAOR for 15 days. On the last day, the animals were rested for one hour, following which the common carotid-artery ligation procedure was performed to induce I/R. The neurological deficit was evaluated at 24 h after I/R using Bederson’s scale, and the relative expression of inflammatory genes and structure of hippocampal neurons were analyzed at 48 h. Results: The chemical analysis revealed five major compounds in EAOr: gallic acid, rutin, ellagic acid, and glucoside and rhamnoside quercetin. EAOr prevented neurological deficit 24 h after I/R; led to the early activation of the AIF and GFAP genes; reduced Nfkb1, IL-1beta, Il-6 and Casp3 gene expression; and protected hippocampal neurons. Conclusions: Our findings demonstrate that EAOr contains polyphenol-type compounds, which could exert a therapeutic effect through the inhibition of neuroinflammation and neuronal death genes, thus maintaining hippocampal neurons.

Premise: Unreduced gametes are the primary mechanism of neopolyploid formation. Their production in diploid populations is arguably maladaptive, but the magnitude and patterns of genetically based variation maintained in natural populations are poorly understood. Methods: We examined variation in male and female unreduced gamete production among plants from different elevations in fireweed, Chamerion angustifolium, grown in a common environment. Using seeds from three high‐elevation and three low‐elevation diploid populations in one study, and a single diploid population in another, we estimated realized rates of unreduced male (sperm) and female (egg) gamete production by reciprocally pollinating diploid and tetraploid plants and estimating the incidence of tetraploid seeds using flow cytometry. Results: Unreduced gamete frequencies per plant were similar in the two studies (0.12% vs. 0.08%). High‐elevation populations had a greater percentage of fruit with seeds from unreduced gametes, but a lower percentage of seeds per fruit than low‐elevation populations. Female unreduced gamete frequencies differed among elevations, but male frequencies did not, and the gamete sexes were not correlated at the plant level. Conclusions: We conclude that genetically based variation for unreduced gametes is maintained within and among natural populations, despite their fitness disadvantages, suggesting that local selection may be ineffective at purging them under some conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ludwigia adscendens (L.) Hara, 1953 (L. adscendens) belongs to the family Onagraceae, which is a traditional medicinal plant distributed worldwide. In this study, the first complete chloroplast genome of L. adscendens was sequenced and assembled. The assembled chloroplast genome of L. adscendens is 159,560 bp in length, containing a pair of inverted repeat region A (IRA) of 24,762 bp, inverted repeat region B (IRB) of 24,762 bp, separated by a large single-copy (LSC) sequence of 90,276 bp and a small single-copy (SSC) region of 19, 760 bp, respectively. A total of 129 genes were annotated in the entire chloroplast genome, consisting of 37 transfer RNA (tRNA) genes, 8 ribosomal RNA (rRNA) genes, and 84 protein-coding genes, with a total GC content of 37.27%. The phylogenomic analysis showed that L. adscendens was closely related to L. octovalvis in the Onagraceae family. Further evolutionary studies of the genus Ludwigia could benefit from the complete chloroplast genome of L. adscendens present in this study and the obtained results would provide useful information for future phylogenetic, taxonomic, and evolutionary studies on Onagraceae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background The evening primrose family (Onagraceae) includes 664 species (803 taxa) with a center of diversity in the Americas, especially western North America. Ongoing research in Onagraceae includes exploring striking variation in floral morphology, scent composition, and breeding system, as well as the role of these traits in driving diversity among plants and their interacting pollinators and herbivores. However, these efforts are limited by the lack of a comprehensive, well-resolved phylogeny. Previous phylogenetic studies based on a few loci strongly support the monophyly of the family and the sister relationship of the two largest tribes but fail to resolve several key relationships. Results We used a target enrichment approach to reconstruct the phylogeny of Onagraceae using 303 highly conserved, low-copy nuclear loci. We present a phylogeny for Onagraceae with 169 individuals representing 152 taxa sampled across the family, including extensive sampling within the largest tribe, Onagreae. Deep splits within the family are strongly supported, whereas relationships among closely related genera and species are characterized by extensive conflict among individual gene trees. Conclusions This phylogenetic resource will augment current research projects focused throughout the family in genomics, ecology, coevolutionary dynamics, biogeography, and the evolution of characters driving diversification in the family.

Chromosome numbers (2n) of 14 adventive plant species from the families Apiaceae, Campanulaceae, Caryophyllaceae, Convolvulaceae, Geraniaceae, Lamiaceae, Malvaceae, Onagraceae, Poaceae, Polygonaceae, and Rosaceae are reported based on the material collected in the Republic of Altai. To determine chromosome number (ploidy level), the method of direct counting was used. Among species studied, chromosome numbers for Anethum graveolens (2n = 22), Myosoton aquaticum (2n = 28), Epilobium hirsutum (2n = 36), and Fagopyrum esculentum (2n = 16) were first examined for Russia; for Silene dichotoma (2n = 24), Ipomoea purpurea (2n = 30), and Sorbaria sorbifolia (2n = 36) – first for Siberia; for Erodium cicutarium (2n = 40) – for West Siberia; Campanula rapunculoides (2n = 68, 102), Nepeta cataria (2n = 34), Malva pusilla (2n = 42), Dianthus deltoides (2n = 30), and Echinochloa crus-galli (2n = 54) were first studied for the Republic of Altai. General distribution and the history of floristic findings of these species in the Republic of Altai are given. Previously published data on chromosome numbers from Russia are cited.

Premise: Animal pollinators play an important role in pollen dispersal. Here, we assessed differences in pollen and seed dispersal and the role of pollinator functional groups with different foraging behaviors in generating patterns of genetic diversity over similar geographic ranges for two closely related taxa. We focused on two members of Oenothera section Calylophus (Onagraceae) that co‐occur on gypsum outcrops throughout the northern Chihuahuan Desert but differ in floral phenotype and primary pollinator: Oenothera gayleana (bee) and O. hartwegii subsp. filifolia (hawkmoth). Methods: We measured breeding system and floral traits and studied gene flow and population differentiation at the local (<13 km; four populations) and landscape (60–440 km; five populations) scales using 10–11 nuclear (pollen dispersal) and three plastid (seed dispersal) microsatellite markers. Results: Both taxa were self‐incompatible and floral traits were consistent with expectations for different pollinators. Seed and pollen dispersal patterns were distinctly different for both species. We found no evidence of genetic structure at the local scale but did at the landscape scale; O. gayleana showed greater differentiation and significant isolation by distance than in O. hartwegii subsp. filifolia. The plastid data were consistent with gravity dispersal of seeds and suggest that pollen dispersal is the principal driver of genetic structure in both species. Conclusions: We demonstrated that pollinator functional groups can impact genetic differentiation in different and predictable ways. Hawkmoths, with larger foraging distances, can maintain gene flow across greater spatial scales than bees. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The diurnal motion of higher plants, responding to the alternation of day and night, known as nyctinastic movements or "sleep movements", has been discussed frequently. We present the first description of the circadian rhythm of the water plant Ludwigia sedoides (Humb. & Bonpl.) H.Hara of the family Onagraceae, furthermore its morphology and anatomy. Our results indicate that the plant's movements are endogenous, although environmental factors certainly have an influence. The majority of plants with nyctinastic leaf movements have a pulvinus, as the crucial part of the plant enabling this movement. Although the basal section of the L. sedoides petiole is not swollen, the tissue functions similarly to a pulvinus. It consists of a central conducting tissue with thick-walled cells, which is surrounded by thin-walled motor cells that can undergo visible shrinking and swelling. Thus, the tissue functionally corresponds to a pulvinus. Examinations of cellular processes, like measurements of the turgor pressure in the petiole, need to be evaluated in future studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Ludwigia adscendens subsp. diffusa (Onagraceae), an important aquatic herb widely distributed in the Nile River and canals in Egypt. The goal of the current study is to investigate the phytochemical composition of L. adscendens aerial parts n-butanol and ethyl acetate fractions and screening of its biological activities. Phytochemical investigation of L. adscendens resulted in the isolation and purification of eleven compounds belonging to flavonoids, saponins, triterpenoids, and oligosaccharides, of which one compound was identified as new using different spectroscopic techniques. Compound 2 was identified as a new compound namely, 3-O-[β-D-glucopyranoside (1 → 4) α-L-rhamnopyranoside]-23-O-feruloyl-hederagenin-28-O-[α-L-rhamnopyranoside (1 → 2) β-D-glucopyranoside], along with other 10 well know compounds. Furthermore, antidiabetic, hepatoprotective and cytotoxic activities of n-butanol and ethyl acetate fractions were investigated in vitro, revealing that ethyl acetate fraction was the most active as antidiabetic (IC50 = 62.3 µg/mL), hepatoprotective (IC50 = 80.75 µg/mL), and cytotoxic against human prostate cancer cell line (IC50 = 52.2 µg/mL). Collectively, L. adscendens aerial part is rich with a myriad of phytochemicals with potential health benefits.

Ludwigia adscendens subsp. diffusa (Onagraceae), an important aquatic herb widely distributed in the Nile River and canals in Egypt. The goal of the current study is to investigate the phytochemical composition of L. adscendens aerial parts n-butanol and ethyl acetate fractions and screening of its biological activities. Phytochemical investigation of L. adscendens resulted in the isolation and purification of eleven compounds belonging to flavonoids, saponins, triterpenoids, and oligosaccharides, of which one compound was identified as new using different spectroscopic techniques. Compound 2 was identified as a new compound namely, 3-O-[β-D-glucopyranoside (1 → 4) α-L-rhamnopyranoside]-23-O-feruloyl-hederagenin-28-O-[α-L-rhamnopyranoside (1 → 2) β-D-glucopyranoside], along with other 10 well know compounds. Furthermore, antidiabetic, hepatoprotective and cytotoxic activities of n-butanol and ethyl acetate fractions were investigated in vitro, revealing that ethyl acetate fraction was the most active as antidiabetic (IC50 = 62.3 µg/mL), hepatoprotective (IC50 = 80.75 µg/mL), and cytotoxic against human prostate cancer cell line (IC50 = 52.2 µg/mL). Collectively, L. adscendens aerial part is rich with a myriad of phytochemicals with potential health benefits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The genus Ludwigia belongs to the Onagraceae family and it encompasses seventy-five species of aquatic plants. The chemistry of this genus is scarcely investigated, although some studies have demonstrated the potential of Ludwigia leptocarpa to produce important bioactive compounds. Herein, we describe the phytochemical investigation of Ludwigia abyssinica A. Rich. Two new steroids named 3 β -formyloxy-5 α ,6α-dihydroxysitostane (Ludwigiaformyl A, 1) and 3 β ,6 α -diformyloxy-5 α -hydroxysitostane (Ludwigiaformyl B, 2), along with six known compounds, 3 β -formyloxysitost-5-en (3), 5 α ,6 β -dihydroxysitosterol (4), maslinic acid (5), oleanolic acid (6) and a mixture of two iridoids: linearin (7) and 1-epilinearin (8) were obtained from whole plant of L. abyssinica. The structures of the isolated compounds were established by extensive analysis of their spectroscopic and spectrometric data, which included HR-TOF-ESIMS, 1D NMR (1H, 13C) and 2D NMR (1H–1H COSY, HSQC, HMBC and ROESY) and by comparison with data reported in the literature. The antimicrobial activities of extracts, fractions, and new compounds (1) and (2) were evaluated using broth microdilution method against fungi and bacteria strains. The MeOH extract and the ethyl acetate fraction displayed different degrees of antibacterial and antifungal activities (MIC = 32 – 512 µg/mL; MMC = 64 – 512 µg/mL) whereas compounds 1 and 2 showed moderate antimicrobial activities against Pseudomonas aeruginosa , Staphylococcus aureus , Escherichia coli , Shigella flexneri and Cryptococcus neoformans (MIC = 8 – 32 µg/mL; MMC = 8 – 64 µg/mL). [Display omitted] • Two new steroid derivatives trivially named Ludwigiaformyl A and B, were isolated from Ludwigia abyssinica. • Their structures were characterized by extensive 2D NMR studies. • Six known compounds were also isolated from this plant. • Antimicrobial activities were evaluated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chromosome numbers (2n) of 15 invasive and potentially invasive plant species from the families Asteraceae, Brassicaceae, Caryophyllaceae, Malvaceae, Onagraceae, Papaveraceae, Plantaginaceae, Poaceae, Polygonaceae, Portulacaceae, and Rosaceae are reported on the samples collected in the Republic of Altai. To determine the chromosome number (ploidy level), the method of direct counting was used. Among studied species, chromosome complements for Persicaria orientalis (2n = 22), Potentilla norvegica (2n = 42), Veronica persica (2n = 28) were first examined from Russia; for Papaver rhoeas (2n = 14) and Rumex obtusifolius (2n = 20) – from Asian part of Russia; for Bromus squarrosus (2n = 14), Cosmos bipinnatus (2n = 24), and Eriochloa villosa (2n = 54) – from Siberia. Abutilon theophrasti (2n = 42) and Lepidium densiflorum (2n = 32) were first studied from Western Siberia; Epilobium ciliatum subsp. adenocaulon (2n = 36), Portulaca oleracea (2n = 36), Spergularia rubra (2n = 36), and Xanthium strumarium (2n = 36) – from the Republic of Altai. Common distribution and the history of floristic findings of these species in the Republic of Altai are given. Previously published data on chromosome numbers from Russia are cited.

Premise: Floral scent is a complex trait that mediates many plant–insect interactions, but our understanding of how floral scent variation evolves, either independently or in concert with other traits, remains limited. Assessing variation in floral scent at multiple levels of biological organization and comparing patterns of variation in scent to variation in other floral traits can contribute to our understanding of how scent variation evolves in nature. Methods: We used a greenhouse common garden experiment to investigate variation in floral scent at three scales—within plants, among plants, and among populations—and to determine whether scent, alone or in combination with morphology and rewards, contributes to population differentiation in Oenothera cespitosa subsp. marginata. Its range spans most of the biomes in the western United States, such that variation in both the abiotic and biotic environment could contribute to trait variation. Results: Multiple analytical approaches demonstrated substantial variation among and within populations in compound‐specific and total floral scent measures. Overall, populations were differentiated in morphology and reward traits and in scent. Across populations, coupled patterns of variation in linalool, leucine‐derived compounds, and hypanthium length are consistent with a long‐tongued moth pollination syndrome. Conclusions: The considerable variation in floral scent detected within populations suggests that, similar to other floral traits, variation in floral scent may have a heritable genetic component. Differences in patterns of population differentiation in floral scent and in morphology and rewards indicate that these traits may be shaped by different selective pressures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Premise: To avoid inbreeding depression, plants have evolved diverse breeding systems to favor outcrossing, such as self‐incompatibility. However, changes in biotic and abiotic conditions can result in selective pressures that lead to a breakdown in self‐incompatibility. The shift to increased selfing is commonly associated with reduced floral features, lower attractiveness to pollinators, and increased inbreeding. We tested the hypothesis that the loss of self‐incompatibility, a shift to self‐fertilization (autogamy), and concomitant evolution of the selfing syndrome (reduction in floral traits associated with cross‐fertilization) will lead to increased inbreeding and population differentiation in Oenothera primiveris. Across its range, this species exhibits a shift in its breeding system and floral traits from a self‐incompatible population with large flowers to self‐compatible populations with smaller flowers. Methods: We conducted a breeding system assessment, evaluated floral traits in the field and under controlled conditions, and measured population genetic parameters using RADseq data. Results: Our results reveal a bimodal transition to the selfing syndrome from the west to the east of the range of O. primiveris. This shift includes variation in the breeding system and the mating system, a reduction in floral traits (flower diameter, herkogamy, and scent production), a shift to greater autogamy, reduced genetic diversity, and increased inbreeding. Conclusions: The observed variation highlights the importance of range‐wide studies to understand breeding system variation and the evolution of the selfing syndrome within populations and species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two new species of Platensina Enderlein, P. rabbanii David & Hancock, sp. nov., and P. flavistigma David & Hancock, sp. nov., are described from Meghalaya and southern India, respectively. Platensina rabbanii can be differentiated from P. alboapicalis Hering by the presence of a single hyaline indentation in cell r1 and the apical hyaline band in cell r2+3 restricted to the apex; P. flavistigma differs from P. quadrula Hardy by the presence of a yellow/fulvous pterostigma and shape of the epandrium. DNA barcode sequences of P. acrostacta (Wiedemann), P. flavistigma and P. platyptera Hendel were obtained and reported. Postabdominal descriptions and illustrations of P. acrostacta, P. platyptera and P. zodiacalis (Bezzi) are also provided along with keys to all 23 species and the 7 known from India. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article presents the evaluation of anticholinesterase effects of aerial parts of Epilobium angustifolium, E. stevenii and E. hirsutum and isolated flavonoids from E. angustifolium, and quantification of the flavonoids by HPLC. Besides, the highest acetylcholinesterase inhibition was seen in the EtOAc sub-extracts of E. angustifolium and E. stevenii (36.51 ± 1.88 and 39.89 ± 3.09%, respectively), whereas EtOAc sub-extract of E. angustifolium had the best butyrylcholinesterase inhibition (62.09 ± 1.98%). Hyperoside showed strong inhibition activity on both enzymes. The active EtOAc sub-extract of E. angustifolium was quantitatively analyzed for their content of hyperoside (quercetin-3-O-β-D-galactoside) by HPLC. The content of hyperoside in EtOAc sub-extract of E. angustifolium was detected as 3.312%. The anatomical structures of the stem, leaf, sepal, petal, anther, and filament of E. angustifolium were investigated. The anatomical properties given in this study provide a description of E. angustifolium. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The complete chloroplast genome sequence of Epilobium hirsutum L. is presented here. It is 161,111 bp in length and divides into four distinct regions: a small single-copy region (SSC) of 17,310 bp, a large single-copy region (LSC) of 89,117 bp, and a pair of inverted repeat (IR) regions of 27,342 bp. The chloroplast genome of E. hirsutum includes a total of 125 genes, consisting of 31 tRNA genes, 8 rRNA genes, and 86 protein-coding genes. A phylogenetic tree was generated to evaluate the evolutionary relationship between E. hirsutum and relevant species. The chloroplast genome sequencing and phylogenetic analysis offer genetic background for conservation and phylogenetic studied of this species.

Evolutionary shifts in breeding system are thought to have played key roles in the diversification of many lineages of plants, including the evening primrose family (Onagraceae), which includes the genus Oenothera L. Diversification in Oenothera has been accompanied by frequent breeding system shifts, but it is not clear whether these differences are due to shared evolutionary history or reflect repeated independent adaptations to varying ecological conditions. In this study, we focus on "Subclade B," one of two primary clades within Oenothera, and combine phylogenetic reconstructions and breeding system data to evaluate evidence for multiple transitions to self-compatibility. This study includes 46 of the 58 named taxa (species and subspecies) of Oenothera Subclade B. Some taxa were sequenced in earlier analyses, available from GenBank, one was resampled here to add new sequences, and 28 taxa are newly sequenced here. We base our phylogeny on sequencing of portions of four chloroplast markers (rps16, ndhF, trnL-F, and rbcL) and two nuclear genes (ITS and ETS). We used pollination tests to verify or determine the breeding system of these taxa. Our phylogeny supports the current classification of Oenothera with minor changes and provides greater insight and clarity to the relationships of these species. Our results provide support for the monophyly of most of the sections in Oenothera Sub- clade B, as well as greater resolution for topology within sections Gaura (L.) W. L. Wagner & Hoch, Hartmannia (Spach) Wal- pers, Kneiffia (Spach) Walpers, and Megapterium (Spach) Walpers. Relationships among these monophyletic lineages, and the placement of sections Paradoxus W. L. Wagner and Peniophyllum (Pennell) Munz, and of the allopolypoid O. hispida (Benth.) W. L. Wagner, Hoch & Zarucchi, are not uniformly well-supported and need further clarification, but these phylogenetic uncertainties had minimal impact on the inference of transitions in self-compatibility in Subclade B. We use maximum likelihood, Bayesian inference and stochastic character mapping to estimate the minimum and maximum number of transitions necessary to explain the phylogenetic distribution of self-compatible lineages. Our results confirm at least 12 and possibly up to 15 independent transitions from self-incompatibility to self-compatibility in Oenothera Subclade B. This lability in breeding system, which is also seen broadly across Oenothera, lends strong support to the hypothesis that this trait plays a key role in the diversification of the genus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It has been suggested that gene duplication and polyploidization create opportunities for the evolution of novel characters. However, the connections between the effects of polyploidization and morphological novelties have rarely been examined. In this study, we investigated whether petal pigmentation patterning in an allotetraploid Clarkia gracilis has evolved as a result of polyploidization. Clarkia gracilis is thought to be derived through a recent polyploidization event with two diploid species, C. amoena huntiana and an extinct species that is closely related to C. lassenensis. We reconstructed phylogenetic relationships of the R2R3 - MYB s (the regulators of petal pigmentation) from two subspecies of C. gracilis and the two purported progenitors, C. a. huntiana and C. lassenensis. The gene tree reveals that these R2R3 - MYB genes have arisen through duplications that occurred before the divergence of the two progenitor species, that is, before polyploidization. After polyploidization and subsequent gene loss, only one of the two orthologous copies inherited from the progenitors was retained in the polyploid, turning it to diploid inheritance. We examined evolutionary changes in these R2R3 - MYB s and in their expression, which reveals that the changes affecting patterning (including expression domain contraction, loss-of-function mutation, cis -regulatory mutation) occurred after polyploidization within the C. gracilis lineages. Our results thus suggest that polyploidization itself is not necessary in producing novel petal color patterns. By contrast, duplications of R2R3 - MYB genes in the common ancestor of the two progenitors have apparently facilitated diversification of petal pigmentation patterns. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thirteen historical specimens (including original material, mainly syntypes and isolectotypes) of Allan and Richard Cunningham's taxa of Epilobium and Fuchsia (Onagraceae) from New Zealand recently discovered in the Turczaninow Herbarium (KW-TURCZ) at the National Herbarium of Ukraine (KW) are discussed in comparison with digital images of and data on other relevant specimens from several other herbaria, such as K, BM, WELT, etc. These specimens, collected in New Zealand by Allan Cunningham in 1826 and 1838 and by Richard Cunningham in 1833–1834, represent the following taxa (as outlined by A. Cunningham): Epilobium alsinoides, E. atriplicifolium, E. confertum, E. hirtigerum, E. nerterioides, E. nummulariifolium, E. pedunculare, E. thymifolium, E. virgatum (A.Cunn., non Lam.), and Fuchsia procumbens. It is demonstrated that type designations for some names in Epilobium mentioned above remain problematic; some names appear to be not yet typified effectively. These problems are caused by several factors, such as misplaced original labels or specimens, errors or misinterpretations in curatorial or copied labels, a complicated numbering system applied by A. Cunningham, etc. Critical re-assessment of all available original and other associated specimens of the mentioned names in Epilobium, especially those in K, is needed. Before such re-assessment, we refrain from any nomenclatural actions affecting type designations. The recent discovery in KW-TURCZ of important historical specimens (not only Onagraceae but also many other plant families) collected in New Zealand in the first half of the 19th century by Allan Cunningham, Richard Cunningham, J. Everard Home and some other early explorers is not only interesting from a historical viewpoint but also important for taxonomy, especially for proper application of names validated by A. Cunningham.

The primrose-willow ( Ludwigia L.), a well-defined genus of the Onagraceae family, comprises 87 species widely distributed worldwide. In this study, we sequenced and characterized the complete chloroplast (cp) genomes of three species in the genus, including Ludwigia adscendens , Ludwigia hyssopifolia , and Ludwigia prostrata . Three Ludwigia cp genomes ranged from 158,354 to 159,592 bp in size, and each contained 113 genes, including 79 unique protein-coding genes (PCGs), four rRNA genes, and 30 tRNA genes. A comparison of the Ludwigia cp genomes revealed that they were highly conserved in gene composition, gene orientation, and GC content. Moreover, we compared the structure of cp genomes and reconstructed phylogenetic relationships with related species in the Onagraceae family. Regarding contraction/expansion of inverted repeat (IR) region, two kinds of expansion IR region structures were found in Oenothera , Chamaenerion , and Epilobium genera, with primitive IR structures in Ludwigia and Circeae genera. The regions clpP , ycf2 , and ycf1 genes possessed highly divergent nucleotides among all available cp genomes of the Onagraceae family. The phylogenetic reconstruction using 79 PCGs from 39 Onagraceae cp genomes inferred that Ludwigia (including L. adscendens , L. hyssopifolia , L. prostrata , and Ludwigia octovalvis ) clade was monophyletic and well-supported by the bootstrap and posterior probability values. This study provides the reference cp genomes of three Ludwigia species, which can be used for species identification and phylogenetic reconstruction of Ludwigia and Onagraceae taxa., Competing Interests: Declaration of conflicting interestsThe authors declared no potential conflicts of interest with respect to the research, authorship, and/or publication of this article.

The evening primrose family, Onagraceae, is a well defined family of the order Myrtales, comprising 22 genera widely distributed from boreal to tropical areas. In this study, we report and characterize the complete chloroplast genome sequences of 13 species in Circaea , Chamaenerion , and Epilobium using a next-generation sequencing method. We also retrieved chloroplast sequences from two other Onagraceae genera to characterize the chloroplast genome of the family. The complete chloroplast genomes of Onagraceae encoded an identical set of 112 genes (with exclusion of duplication), including 78 protein-coding genes, 30 transfer RNAs, and four ribosomal RNAs. The chloroplast genomes are basically conserved in gene arrangement across the family. However, a large segment of inversion was detected in the large single copy region of all the samples of Oenothera subsect. Oenothera. Two kinds of inverted repeat (IR) region expansion were found in Oenothera , Chamaenerion , and Epilobium samples. We also compared chloroplast genomes across the Onagraceae samples in some features, including nucleotide content, codon usage, RNA editing sites, and simple sequence repeats (SSRs). Phylogeny was inferred by the chloroplast genome data using maximum-likelihood (ML) and Bayesian inference methods. The generic relationship of Onagraceae was well resolved by the complete chloroplast genome sequences, showing potential value in inferring phylogeny within the family. Phylogenetic relationship in Oenothera was better resolved than other densely sampled genera, such as Circaea and Epilobium. Chloroplast genomes of Oenothera subsect. Oenothera , which are biparental inheritated, share a syndrome of characteristics that deviate from primitive pattern of the family, including slightly expanded inverted repeat region, intron loss in clp P, and presence of the inversion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Premise: Ecogeographic isolation, or geographic isolation caused by ecological divergence, is thought to be of primary importance in speciation, yet is difficult to demonstrate and quantify. To determine whether distributions are limited by divergent adaptation or historical contingency, the gold standard is to reciprocally transplant species between their geographic ranges. Alternatively, ecogeographic isolation is inferred from species distribution models and niche divergence tests using widely available environmental and occurrence data. Methods: We tested for ecogeographic isolation between two sister species of California annual wildflowers, Clarkia concinna and C. breweri, with a hybrid approach. We used niche models to predict water availability as the major axis of ecological divergence and then tested that with a greenhouse experiment. Specifically, we manipulated water availability in field soils for two populations of each species and predicted higher fitness in conditions representing home habitats to those representing the environment of each's sister species. Results: Water availability and soil representing C. concinna generally increased both species' fitness. Thus, water and soil may indeed limit C. concinna from colonizing the range of C. breweri, but not vice versa. We suggest that the competitive environment and pollinator availability, which are not directly captured with either approach, may be key biotic factors correlated with climate that contribute to unexplained ecogeographic isolation for C. breweri. Conclusions: Ours is a valuable approach to assessing ecogeographic isolation, in that it balances feasibility with model validation, and our results have implications for species distribution modeling efforts geared toward predicting climate change responses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Premise: Heterospecific pollen transfer, the transfer of pollen between species, is common among co‐flowering plants, yet the amount of pollen received is extremely variable among species. Intraspecific variation in heterospecific pollen receipt can be even greater, but we lack an understanding of its causes and fitness consequences in wild populations. Methods: We examined potential drivers of variation in heterospecific pollen receipt in Oenothera fruticosa. We evaluated the relationship between heterospecific and conspecific pollen receipt and considered how visitation by different pollinator groups, local floral neighborhood composition, and flowering phenology affect the total amount and proportion of heterospecific pollen received. Finally, we tested whether variation in heterospecific pollen receipt translated into lower seed production. Results: Heterospecific pollen was ubiquitous on O. fruticosa stigmas, but the amount received was highly variable and unrelated to conspecific pollen receipt. Heterospecific pollen receipt depended on pollinator type, the proportion of nearby conspecific flowers, and flowering date. Significant interactions revealed that the effects of pollinator type and neighborhood were not independent, further contributing to variation in heterospecific pollen. Naturally occurring levels of heterospecific pollen were sufficient to negatively impact seed set, but large amounts of conspecific pollen counteracted this detrimental effect. Conclusions: Although selection could act on floral traits that attract quality pollinators and promote synchronous flowering in O. fruticosa, the risk of heterospecific pollen is equally dependent on local floral context. This work highlights how extrinsic and intrinsic factors contribute to intraspecific variation in heterospecific pollen receipt in wild plants, with significant fitness consequences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The evening primrose family, Onagraceae, is a well defined family of the order Myrtales, comprising 22 genera widely distributed from boreal to tropical areas. In this study, we report and characterize the complete chloroplast genome sequences of 13 species in Circaea, Chamaenerion, and Epilobium using a next-generation sequencing method. We also retrieved chloroplast sequences from two other Onagraceae genera to characterize the chloroplast genome of the family. The complete chloroplast genomes of Onagraceae encoded an identical set of 112 genes (with exclusion of duplication), including 78 protein-coding genes, 30 transfer RNAs, and four ribosomal RNAs. The chloroplast genomes are basically conserved in gene arrangement across the family. However, a large segment of inversion was detected in the large single copy region of all the samples of Oenothera subsect. Oenothera. Two kinds of inverted repeat (IR) region expansion were found in Oenothera, Chamaenerion, and Epilobium samples. We also compared chloroplast genomes across the Onagraceae samples in some features, including nucleotide content, codon usage, RNA editing sites, and simple sequence repeats (SSRs). Phylogeny was inferred by the chloroplast genome data using maximum-likelihood (ML) and Bayesian inference methods. The generic relationship of Onagraceae was well resolved by the complete chloroplast genome sequences, showing potential value in inferring phylogeny within the family. Phylogenetic relationship in Oenothera was better resolved than other densely sampled genera, such as Circaea and Epilobium. Chloroplast genomes of Oenothera subsect. Oenothera, which are biparental inheritated, share a syndrome of characteristics that deviate from primitive pattern of the family, including slightly expanded inverted repeat region, intron loss in clpP, and presence of the inversion.

In this study, pollen morphologies of eleven species of the Epilobium L. genus belonging to Onagraceae family were investigated under light and scanning electron microscopy. Solutions to taxonomic problems of these species were sought with palynological information. The characteristics of the genus Epilobium L. studied as a result of palynological studies are as follows: It has been determined that their pollen grains have tetrad, angulaperturate, 3-zonoporate (rarely 2,4 porate), suboblate and oblate-spheroidal pollen shapes, and have baculate, baculate-rugulate, and rugulate ornamentation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Premise: To further advance the understanding of the species‐rich, economically and ecologically important angiosperm order Myrtales in the rosid clade, comprising nine families, approximately 400 genera and almost 14,000 species occurring on all continents (except Antarctica), we tested the Angiosperms353 probe kit. Methods: We combined high‐throughput sequencing and target enrichment with the Angiosperms353 probe kit to evaluate a sample of 485 species across 305 genera (76% of all genera in the order). Results: Results provide the most comprehensive phylogenetic hypothesis for the order to date. Relationships at all ranks, such as the relationship of the early‐diverging families, often reflect previous studies, but gene conflict is evident, and relationships previously found to be uncertain often remain so. Technical considerations for processing HTS data are also discussed. Conclusions: High‐throughput sequencing and the Angiosperms353 probe kit are powerful tools for phylogenomic analysis, but better understanding of the genetic data available is required to identify genes and gene trees that account for likely incomplete lineage sorting and/or hybridization events. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chromosome numbers (2n) in 16 invasive plant species from the families Amaranthaceae, Asteraceae, Caryophyllaceae, Lamiaceae, Onagraceae and Poaceae are reported on the material from the Altai Republic for the first time. Among them, chromosome complements were first examined in Russia for Chaiturus marrubiastrum (L.) Ehrh. ex Reichenb. (2n = 24) and Oenothera villosa Thunb. (2n = 14). Five species: Amaranthus lividus L. (2n = 34), Elisanthe noctiflora (L.) Rupr. (2n = 24), Galeopsis speciosa Mill. (2n = 16), Oenothera biennis L. (2n = 14) and Bromus japonicus Thunb. (2n = 14), were studied first from Siberia. The most part of the species studied are diploids. The general distribution and the history of floristic findings of these species in the Altai Republic are given. The data on chromosome numbers published earlier on the material from Russia are cited.

Medicinal plants are treasure of Ayurveda and recently researchers are emphasizing on medicinal plants to obtained new phyto-pharmaceuticals to counter the various diseases. The Indian system of medicines, recommend extracts of medicinal plants instead of natural phytomolecules for the treatment of various anomalies and diseases, by considering that the cumulative effect of extract is more effective over the individual phytomolecules. The medicinal plant Ludwigia octovalvis, commonly known as Mexican primerse - willow (Onagraceae) is used traditionally for the treatment of various diseases like edema, nephritis, hypotension, anti-malarial, dysentery, diarrhea, diabetes, headache, fever, toxemia, as carminative, laxative, vermifuge, astringent, anthelmintic, in nervous disorders, as analgesic, in rheumatic pain and for swollen glands. Collection of plant material was bringing out and its morphological, physicochemical and phytochemical studies (preliminary qualitative and quantitative analysis) and advanced chromatographic study like HPTLC profiles of the hydro-alcoholic extract were performed. Also various pharmacognostical standards for Ludwigia octovalvis have been established in the present investigation. The hydro-alcoholic extract of Ludwigia octovalvis studied for phytochemicals and confirmed the presence of phytochemical like carbohydrate, alkaloid, saponin, flavonoids and phenolics. The quantitative estimation of antioxidant bio-components like total phenolics and total flavonoid contents were calculated by UV-Visible spectroscopy method and determined as 5.15 mg/g gallic acid equivalent and 43.9 mg/g quercetin equivalent respectively. Further, the hydro-alcoholic extract of Ludwigia octovalvis was standardized by HPTLC method by using various marker compounds and confirmed the presence of bioactive constituents as lupeol, quercetin, gallic acid and stigmasterol. These studies may be used as reference for the development of authentic monograph for this drug and also helpful for recognition and standardization of whole plant of Ludwigia octovalvis from the other species of Ludwigia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fruit‐set and seed‐set depend on environmental conditions and reproductive systems. They are important components of sexual reproductive success in plants. They also control the ecological success and adaptation of invasive plants within their non‐native ecosystems. We studied which factors bring about fruit‐set and seed‐set in invasive populations of the aquatic plant Ludwigia grandiflora subsp. hexapetala. We analyzed fruit set and seed set in 37 populations growing under variable climatic conditions in Western Europe. Sub‐samples of seven fruitful and fruitless populations were grown in common controlled conditions. We carried out self‐ and cross‐pollinations, and measured the floral morphometry. Environmental conditions did not affect fruit‐set and seed‐set in‐situ and in common controlled environments. Hand‐pollinations showed that individuals from fruitful populations exhibited fruit and seed production whatever the pollen donor, whereas individuals from fruitless populations only did so when pollen came from fruitful populations. Floral morphometry evidenced the existence of two floral morphs that fully overlapped with fruitfulness, and individual incompatibility. Our results rebutted the hypothesis that environmental variations control fruit set and seed set in these invasive populations. We instead showed that fruit set and seed set were controlled by a heteromorphic reproductive system involving a self‐incompatible and inter‐morph compatible morph (long‐styled morph), and a self‐ and inter‐morph compatible reverse morph (short‐styled morph). We collected morphs and fruit set records of this species worldwide and found the same relationship: fruitless populations were all composed only of individuals with long‐styled floral morph. Our study constitutes the first evidence of a heteromorphic self‐incompatible system in Ludwigia genus and Onagraceae family. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Premise: The timing of self‐fertilization has potentially important consequences for the trajectory of mating system evolution, the opportunity for outcrossing, and the maintenance of genetic variation in populations. For primarily selfing taxa, it remains poorly understood as to how floral variation influences the opportunity for outcrossing and whether those attributes vary among populations across geographic ranges. Methods: We examined variation in floral traits (herkogamy, protandry, flower size, stigma stage at anthesis, timing of stigma receptivity) in seven populations of Clarkia xantiana ssp. parviflora, a primarily selfing taxon, spanning from the western to eastern margins of its distribution. We also performed experimental emasculations and pollinations (followed by stigma severing) to quantify the extent of opportunities for outcrossing across flower development. Results: There was marked among‐population variation in all floral traits, particularly between far eastern and western populations. Emasculation experiments showed that the eastern populations had minimal autonomous selfing, but western populations had high rates of selfing within 24 h after anthesis. Population variation in autofertility was significantly predicted by floral trait variation, especially protandry and petal size. Conclusions: Greater protandry both extended the time over which outcrossing could potentially occur and reduced the probability of autonomous selfing, suggesting that there may be a tradeoff that results in fitness loss when pollinator visits are not common. The east‐west pattern of differentiation in some floral traits parallels that of postglacial range expansion, suggesting that selection on the mating system may have been strong in the process of range expansion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Premise: Worldwide, ecosystems are threatened by global changes, including biological invasions. Invasive species arriving in novel environments experience new climatic conditions that can affect their successful establishment. Determining the response of functional traits and fitness components of invasive populations from contrasting environments can provide a useful framework to assess species responses to climate change and the variability of these responses among source populations. Much research on macrophytes has focused on establishment from clonal fragments; however, colonization from sexual propagules has rarely been studied. Our objective was to compare trait responses of plants generated from sexual propagules sourced from three climatic regions but grown under common environmental conditions, using L. peploides subsp. montevidensis as a model taxon. Methods: We grew seedlings to reproductive stage in experimental mesocosms under a mediterranean California (MCA) climate from seeds collected in oceanic France (OFR), mediterranean France (MFR), and MCA. Results: Seed source region was a major factor influencing differences among invasive plants recruiting from sexual propagules of L. peploides subsp. montevidensis. Trait responses of young individual recruits from MCA and OFR, sourced from geographically distant and climatically distinct source regions, were the most different. The MCA individuals accumulated more biomass, flowered earlier, and had higher leaf N concentrations than the OFR plants. Those from MFR had intermediate profiles. Conclusions: By showing that the closer a seedling is from its parental climate, the better it performs, this study provides new insights to the understanding of colonization of invasive plant species and informs its management under novel and changing environmental conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Seed dispersion is a critical process to vegetation dynamics which is particularly complex in mosaic-like landscapes as the Pantanal wetlands. We analyzed some aspects of ichthyochory in the Pantanal flooded grasslands. The fish were collected and had their whole intestinal contents removed and submitted to suitable germination conditions for 179 days. We collected 661 specimens belonging to 40 species. Feces from Astyanax lacustris, Poptela paraguayensis, Moenkhausia sanctafilomena and Moenkhausia bonita produced 15 seedlings of herbaceous plant of the species Ludwigia inclinata, Ludwigia leptocarpa and a non-identified monocotyledon. A total of 30.4 g of fecal mass was recovered with a rate of 0.49 seedling.gram−1. There is a positive relation between the number of seedlings obtained and the amount of fish fecal mass (g). Currently, Pantanal landscape dynamics is under rising pressure of field compartmentalization due to man-made roads which restrains fish transit. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While it is known that whole genome duplication (WGD) and reticulate evolution play important roles in plant evolution, the origins and evolutionary histories of most polyploid and reticulate groups are still poorly known. The North Temperate haplostemonous (NTH) Ludwigia L. (sections Isnardia (L.) W. L. Wagner & Hoch, Ludwigia, Microcarpium Munz, and Miquelia P. H. Raven) group, characterized by having 4-merous and haplostemonous flowers, pluriseriate and free seeds, glabrous and convex nectaries, and a north-temperate distribution, is a polyploid complex (23, 43, 63, and 83) of 24 species with frequent reports of inter- and intrasectional hybridization. Although earlier biosystematics studies postulated some evolutionary scenarios and recent molecular phylogenetic studies have partially tested these propositions, the full history of their reticulate evolution remains puzzling. In this study, we sequenced four chloroplast regions (rpL16, rpoB-trnC, trnL-trnF, and ycf6-psbM) and conducted extensive molecular cloning of the biparentally inherited single-copy nuclear PgiC gene (376 clones in total), sampling 23 of the 24 NTH Ludwigia species whose chromosome numbers and ploidy levels were confirmed. Both the chloroplast and PgiC trees include strongly supported sister clades of section Ludwigia (four diploid species) and the "Microcarpium complex" (composed of sections Isnardia, Microcarpium, and Miquelia), which together are sister to the rest of Ludwigia. In the PgiC tree, eight clades are identified within the Microcarpium complex, with four clades including no extant diploid species. Neither sections Isnardia nor Microcarpium are monophyletic, while the monospecific section Miquelia has a hybrid origin. By integrating our phylogenetic trees with previous cytological hypotheses, the reticulate evolution of NTH Ludwigia is disentangled and four to eight extinct diploid species are inferred. Ancestral area reconstruction supports a North American origin of L. ovalis whose current East Asian distribution reflects a relict of the Arcto-Tertiary Geoflora. Based on our results, we propose to synonymize sections Microcarpium and Miquelia under the expanded section Isnardia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ludwigia adscendens (L.) Hara, Ludwigia parviflora Roxb., and Ludwigia octovalvis (Jacq.) Raven (Onagraceae) are abundant weeds in rice fields in India. These weeds compete with rice for resources in fields and this results in reduction of grain yield. Altica cyanea (Weber) (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae) is a biocontrol agent of the three rice‐field weeds. Hence, it is relevant to study host preference of A. cyanea using volatile cues of these three weeds. Therefore, we attempted to identify volatiles from leaves of the three Ludwigia species attracting A. cyanea, which could be used as an attractant during early emergence of the weeds in rice fields. In Y‐tube olfactometer assays, A. cyanea females were more attracted to natural volatiles of plants after 48 h of feeding by adults than to volatiles of undamaged plants. The volatile organic compounds from undamaged plants, and plants after 6 and 48 h of feeding by A. cyanea were identified and quantified by gas chromatography and mass spectrometry (GC–MS) and GC‐flame ionization detection (FID), respectively. In total, 25, 29, and 29 volatile compounds were detected in headspaces of undamaged L. adscendens, L. parviflora, and L. octovalvis, respectively, whereas 32, 35, and 34 compounds, respectively, were detected after 48 h of feeding by A. cyanea. Methyl jasmonate predominated among the volatile compounds in all treatments, but this compound was not attractive to A. cyanea. Females were attracted by synthetic blends of 3‐hexanol, α‐pinene, linalool oxide, and phytol in amounts mimicking those in each of the three Ludwigia species after 48 h of feeding by A. cyanea. The blends mimicking L. adscendens and L. parviflora included geraniol, whereas the blend mimicking L. parviflora also included 1‐tridecanol. These synthetic blends may be helpful to monitor A. cyanea in biocontrol programmes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Willowherb (Epilobium angustifolium L., family Onagraceae) is a well-known food and medicinal plant used after fermentation as a source of beverages with high antioxidant potential. Despite this long history of use, only a few papers have described the chemical profile and bioactivity of fermented willowherb tea in general. To understand the basic metabolic differences of non-fermented and fermented E. angustifolium leaves, we used general chemical analysis, high-performance liquid chromatography with photodiode array detection and electrospray ionization triple quadrupole mass spectrometric detection assay, and an isolation technique. As a result, the content of 14 chemical groups of compounds was compared in the two plant materials; 59 compounds were detected, including 36 new metabolites; and a new water-soluble phenolic polymer of melanoidin nature was isolated and characterized. The fundamental chemical shifts in fermented E. angustifolium leaves relate mainly to the decrease of ellagitannin content, while there is an increase of melanoidin percentage and saving of the antioxidant potential, despite the significant changes detected. The strong antioxidative properties of the new melanoidin were revealed in a series of in vitro bioassays, and a simulated gastrointestinal and colonic digestion model demonstrated the stability of melanoidin and its antioxidant activity. Finally, we concluded that the new melanoidin is a basic antioxidant of the fermented leaves of E. angustifolium, and it can be recommended for additional study as a promising food and medicinal antioxidant agent.

In the representatives of the order Myrtales, the patterns of fruit dehiscence of the most common fruit – loculicidal capsule were revealed. The characteristics of capsular fruits in the studied species of Lythraceae, Myrtaceae and Onagraceae fami­lies are prominent central column, bearing seeds, and hypanthium adjoined or adnated to the ovary. Fruit dehiscence is provided by means of two kinds of longitudinal splits – dorsal and septifragal. Dorsal splits appear along the dorsal carpellary veins, while septifragal splits appear in the places where septae detach from the central column. Studied species differ in the ovary position: in Heimia salicifolia L. (Lythraceae) ovary is superior, in Callistemon macropunctatus Court. and Leptospermum scoparium Forst. (Myrtaceae) it is partly inferior, and in Oenothera biennis L. (Onagraceae) it is inferior. Since some differences were detected in the location of the dorsal dehiscence splits: in Lythraceae and Myrtaceae splits appear in the carpellary tissue only, but in Onagraceae they appear in the ovary wall of the complex origin (which is constructed by carpellary and hypanthial tissues). It was proposed to precise the fruit types and dehiscence types of studied species and to apply them: dorsally-septifragal capsule with superior (Lythraceae, Myrtaceae) or inferior (Onagraceae) dehiscence types.

The complete chloroplast genome sequence of Epilobium hirsutum L. is presented here. It is 161,111 bp in length and divides into four distinct regions: a small single-copy region (SSC) of 17,310 bp, a large single-copy region (LSC) of 89,117 bp, and a pair of inverted repeat (IR) regions of 27,342 bp. The chloroplast genome of E. hirsutum includes a total of 125 genes, consisting of 31 tRNA genes, 8 rRNA genes, and 86 protein-coding genes. A phylogenetic tree was generated to evaluate the evolutionary relationship between E. hirsutum and relevant species. The chloroplast genome sequencing and phylogenetic analysis offer genetic background for conservation and phylogenetic studied of this species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Premise Rosebay willowherb, or fireweed (Chamerion angustifolium: Onagraceae), has diploid, tetraploid, and hexaploid cytotypes. There are known physiological and ecological differences among the three cytotypes, but genetic differences remain undetermined. We developed simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers for this species. Methods and Results Leaf samples were collected from three hexaploid C. angustifolium populations. We successfully amplified 16 SSR loci, which were found to be highly polymorphic. The number of alleles, the observed heterozygosity levels, and the expected heterozygosity levels ranged from four to 13, 0.286–0.899, and 0.372–0.871, respectively. Most primers could also be amplified successfully in C. conspersum and the closely related species Epilobium palustre. Conclusions The 16 polymorphic SSR markers developed here will be useful for genetic studies in C. angustifolium and related species.

Ludwigia adscendens (L.) Hara, 1953 ( L. adscendens ) belongs to the family Onagraceae, which is a traditional medicinal plant distributed worldwide. In this study, the first complete chloroplast genome of L. adscendens was sequenced and assembled. The assembled chloroplast genome of L. adscendens is 159,560 bp in length, containing a pair of inverted repeat region A (IRA) of 24,762 bp, inverted repeat region B (IRB) of 24,762 bp, separated by a large single-copy (LSC) sequence of 90,276 bp and a small single-copy (SSC) region of 19, 760 bp, respectively. A total of 129 genes were annotated in the entire chloroplast genome, consisting of 37 transfer RNA (tRNA) genes, 8 ribosomal RNA (rRNA) genes, and 84 protein-coding genes, with a total GC content of 37.27%. The phylogenomic analysis showed that L. adscendens was closely related to L. octovalvis in the Onagraceae family. Further evolutionary studies of the genus Ludwigia could benefit from the complete chloroplast genome of L. adscendens present in this study and the obtained results would provide useful information for future phylogenetic, taxonomic, and evolutionary studies on Onagraceae., Competing Interests: No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s)., (© 2023 The Author(s). Published by Informa UK Limited, trading as Taylor & Francis Group.)

This study examined the effects of methanol extract and its sub-extracts from Epilobium angustifolium on α-glucosidase and α-amylase activity. Secondary metabolites and amino acids were quantified using LC-MS/MS. Dichloromethane sub-extract displayed the highest activity and was chosen for further investigation. Despite the widespread use of E. angustifolium, genotoxicity studies were conducted to assess its safety. Dichloromethane significantly inhibited α-glucosidase (IC 50 =17.340 μg/mL), making it approximately 293 times more effective than acarbose. Six known compounds, including gallic acid (1), a mixture of quercetin-3-O-α-galactoside (2a) and quercetin-3-O-α-glucoside (2b), quercetin-3-O-α-glucuronic acid (3), quercetin-3-O-α-rhamnoside (4), and kaempferol-3-O-α-rhamnoside (5) were identified. Quercetin-3-O-α-rhamnoside exhibited the highest inhibition of α-glucosidase (IC 50 =1735±85 μM), making it 3.70 times more effective than acarbose. Dichloromethane also showed significant antigenotoxic activity against mutagenesis induced by NaN3, 9-AA, 4-NPD, and MNNG. Gallic acid was found in the highest abundance (13253.6931 ng/mL) in the methanolic extract. Furthermore, L-Aspartic acid was the most concentrated amino acid (363.5620 nmol/mL) in the methanolic extract., (© 2023 Wiley-VHCA AG, Zurich, Switzerland.)