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    Green Plant Phylogeny

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.