Evolutionary relationships of poorly known Aegean endemic monotypic genus <i>Microsciadium</i> (Apiaceae)

In this study, the Aegean endemic genus <i>Microsciadium</i> was first evaluated in light of both ribosomal and chloroplast DNA datasets. According to the literature, <i>Microsciadium minutum</i> was determined as <i>Cuminum minutum</i>, then transferred to <i>Carum</i> (as <i>C. minutum</i>), and then <i>Azorella</i> (as <i>A. minuta</i>). Interestingly, these three genera belong to different tribes, even to different subfamilies. Since the phylogenetic position of <i>Microsciadium</i> was unknown, we analyzed this monotypic genus with a broad sampling of Apiaceae based on rps16 intron and an internal transcribed spacer. <i>Microsciadium</i> is well nested in the tribe Pyramidoptereae in Apioideae based on both datasets. Also, this genus is closely related to <i>Hellenocarum</i>. In addition, the detailed description, photographs, and micrographs of <i>M. minutum</i> are presented. The name is lectotypified here.