Progress in molecular systematics of Caprifoliaceae

Abstract

Caprifoliaceae sensu APG IV shows a disjunctive distribution between Eurasia and America, and is an excellent study system for exploring the formation of species with an Eurasian–North American disjunct distribution. Due to widespread hybridization and introgression in Caprifoliaceae sensu APG IV as well as morphological convergence and discontinuous distribution of species, the phylogenetic relationships among subfamilies and the systematic positions of some genera have yet to be fully resolved. Therefore, we present an overview of the classification and molecular phylogenetic studies of Caprifoliaceae sensu APG IV in recent years, aiming to provide a reference for the systematic classification of Caprifoliaceae sensu APG IV and to facilitate discussions of problems and directions of systematic studies in the family.