Systematics, Evolution, and Ecology of Melastomataceae

This book provides a comprehensive overview of the Melastomataceae family, including their global diversity, distribution, systematics, evolution, biogeography, reproductive biology, and ecology.

Format: Hardback
Length: 793 pages
Publication date: 22 July 2022
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

This comprehensive book offers a thorough synthesis of vital and groundbreaking new information about the Melastomataceae, a remarkable family of flowering plants that boasts an impressive diversity of over 5,800 species, with a remarkable concentration of its richness in tropical or subtropical regions. It provides a comprehensive overview of the family's global diversity and distribution, highlighting recent advancements in systematics, evolution, biogeography, reproductive biology, and ecology.

The Melastomataceae family is a remarkable testament to the immense diversity and adaptability of plant life on our planet. With its vast array of species distributed across diverse tropical and subtropical habitats, this family has captured the attention of scientists and enthusiasts alike. In this book, we delve into the intricate details of the Melastomataceae family, exploring its global diversity and distribution, as well as summarizing recent breakthroughs in systematics, evolution, biogeography, reproductive biology, and ecology.

Systematics is the branch of biology that studies the relationships and evolutionary history of living organisms. In the Melastomataceae family, systematics has played a crucial role in understanding the taxonomy, classification, and evolutionary relationships among its diverse species. Researchers have used advanced techniques such as DNA sequencing, phylogenetic analysis, and morphological studies to unravel the complex evolutionary history of this family.

Evolution is the process by which living organisms change over time through the accumulation of genetic mutations and selective pressures. The Melastomataceae family has undergone significant evolutionary changes throughout its history, resulting in the development of unique adaptations and characteristics that enable them to thrive in their respective environments. Understanding the evolutionary processes within the Melastomataceae family has shed light on the mechanisms underlying plant diversification and adaptation.

Biogeography is the study of the distribution and abundance of living organisms across different geographic regions. The Melastomataceae family exhibits a remarkable distribution pattern, with many species being endemic to specific regions or countries. By studying the biogeography of the Melastomataceae family, researchers have gained insights into the factors that influence species distribution, such as climate, habitat, and geological history.

Reproductive biology is the study of the processes involved in the production and distribution of seeds and spores. The Melastomataceae family is known for its diverse reproductive strategies, including both sexual and asexual reproduction. By understanding the reproductive biology of the Melastomataceae family, researchers have gained insights into the mechanisms that drive speciation and the evolution of reproductive traits.

Ecology is the study of the interactions between living organisms and their environment. The Melastomataceae family plays a crucial role in various ecosystems, including forests, savannas, and deserts. By studying the ecology of the Melastomataceae family, researchers have gained insights into the roles that these plants play in nutrient cycling, pollination, and pest control.

In conclusion, this book presents a comprehensive synthesis of critical new information about the Melastomataceae family. It provides a valuable resource for researchers, students, and enthusiasts interested in plant diversity, evolution, biogeography, reproductive biology, and ecology. By exploring the global diversity and distribution of the Melastomataceae family, as well as summarizing recent advances in systematics, evolution, biogeography, reproductive biology, and ecology, we gain a deeper understanding of the remarkable contributions that this family makes to our understanding of plant life on Earth.

Weight: 1388g
Dimension: 235 x 155 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030997410
Edition number: 1st ed. 2022