New Insight into the Phylogenetics and Morphometrics of the Genus Acer L. (Sapindaceae) Native to Türkiye

Comprehending the phylogeny and evolutionary history of the Acer genus through regional studies is crucial for clarifying its biogeographical patterns. This study investigates the taxonomic status, morphological diversity, and phylogenetic relationships of 21 naturally occurring taxa of the Acer genus in Türkiye. It presents significant findings regarding the phylogenetic positions and morphological distinctions of all Acer taxa naturally found in Türkiye for the first time. We conducted a comparative study using 18 useful morphological features and sequence data from chloroplast DNA markers ndhF and trnL-F, as well as nuclear ribosomal DNA marker internal transcribed spacer. The results of the phylogenetic and morphometrical analyses offered reliable taxonomic clarifications, specifically for the taxa Acer hyrcanum subsp. tauricolum, Acer cappadocicum subsp. divergens endemic to Türkiye, Acer orthocampestre, and Acer cappadocicum subsp. cappadocicum. The monophyly of sections Acer, Ginnala, and Platanoidea was supported in chloroplast lineages. The majority of Acer phylogenetic positions in Türkiye exhibit close relationships with taxa native to the Eurosiberian phytogeographical region, likely influenced by the habitats created by the northern mountain ranges. Additionally, this study provides a novel insight into the origin in the Oligocene and diversification in the Miocene of Acer in Türkiye. Cite this article as: Acar, P., Seki, N., Bani, B., Yiğit, N., Duman, H., & Kaya, Z.(2025). New insight into the phylogenetics and morphometrics of the genus Acer L. (sapindaceae) native to Türkiye. Forestist, 0052, doi: 10.5152/ forestist.2025.24052.