Cytotype distribution and evolution of a polyploid complex
The distribution of cytotypes on different spatial scales provides valuable insights into evolutionary processes of a polyploid complex. Sonnleitner et al. determine ploidy levels of more than 5000 individuals of Senecio carniolicus (Asteraceae) in the Eastern Alps and show that the three main cytotypes are either distributed allopatrically, probably resulting from Pleistocene range shifts, or, if co-occurring in mixed populations (44 of 100 populations studied), they are segregated spatially (altitude) and ecologically (exposition, vegetation cover).
