A comprehensive synthesis of the phylogenetic relationships of the major
groups of green plants, using morphological, developmental, and
ultrastructural characters as well as DNA sequence data is underway. Dr. Brent Mishler was involved in
several preliminary studies in this effort, as was Dr. Alan Smith. These initial syntheses
served as the basis for a successful grant proposal to USDA to fund a
Research Cordination Group entitled "The Origins and Phylogeny of Green
Plants" (co-PIs Mark A. Buchheim, Brent D. Mishler, Russell L. Chapman).
The general goal has been to facilitate interaction between distinct
research labs that have independent foci yet entail some aspect of green
plant phylogeny or systematics.
During the year 1997--1998, The Green Plant Phylogeny Research
Coordination Group met in association with the AIBS meeting in Montreal,
Canada, 7 Aug 1997. This meeting concentrated on the bryophyte and
vascular plant clades of green plants, and was organized and chaired by
Dr. Mishler. Dr. Smith was a participant in the morning session and
conducted the separate pteridophyte component of this meeting (afternoon
session). The process is continuing, centered around a WWW site hosted
by UC/JEPS, and will culminate in a major symposium and associated
publication at the next International Botanical Congress in St. Louis in
1999.
For more information contact the Green
Plant Phylogeny Research Coordination Group web page.
