The genus Exodeconus and some comments on its relation with Nicandra ( Solanaceae).

The small genus Exodeconus Rafinesque ( Solanaceae) from Ecuador and Peru is revised for the first time. Six species are recognised. Key, descriptions, lectotypifications, illustrations, and distribution maps are provided. The new combination Exodeconus integrifolius ( Philippi) Axelius is made. A hypothesis of the phylogenetic relationships within the genus, based on parsimony analyses of morphological data, is presented in form of a cladogram. A method to reveal hybrids by comparing their placement in cladograms based on morphological or on chloroplast DNA data, respectively, is presented. In light of this, a hypothesis of a hybrid origin of Exodeconus, or of the related genus Nicandra Adanson, is discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]