Eco‐evolutionary evidence for the global diversity pattern of Cycas (Cycadaceae)

• DOI: 10.1111/jipb.13638
• Publication Date: 2024-03-13T13:39:06Z
• Authors: Jian Liu; Anders J. Lindstrom; Yiqing Gong; Shanshan Dong; Yusheng (Chris) Liu; Shouzhou Zhang; Xun Gong
• Keywords: Aridification; Biome

ABSTRACT The evolution of the latitudinal diversity gradient (LDG), characterized by a peak in toward tropics, has captured significant attention evolutionary biology and ecology. However, inverse LDG (i‐LDG) mechanism, wherein species richness increases poles, remains inadequately explored. Cycads are among one oldest lineages extant seed plants have undergone extensive diversification tropics. Intriguingly, cycad abundance exhibits an i‐LDG pattern, underlying causes for this phenomenon remain largely elusive. Here, using 1,843 nuclear genes from nearly complete sampling, we conducted comprehensive phylogenomic analyses to establish robust species‐level phylogeny Cycas , largest genus within cycads. We then reconstructed spatial‐temporal dynamics integrated global environmental data evaluate roles ages, rates, contemporary environment, conservatism ancestral niches shaping pattern. found experienced decreased coupled with cooling temperature since its origin Eocene continental Asia. Different regions distinctively contributed formation northern hemisphere acting as museums southern serving cradles. Moreover, water‐related climate variables, specifically precipitation seasonality potential evapotranspiration, were identified paramount factors constraining rainforest biome near equator. Notably, adherence monsoonal climates emerges critical factor sustaining This study underscores imperative integrating both ecological approaches comprehensively unravel mechanisms underpinning biodiversity patterns.