Evolution, classification and biogeography of Velloziaceae

There is considerable discord among treatments of the Velloziaceae despite the large amount of data that exists for this family. Mello-Silva et al. undertake analyses of 48 species representing all ten genera, including data on DNA sequences from the atpB-rbcL spacer, trnL-trnF spacer, trnL intron, trnH-psbA spacer, ITS ribosomal DNA spacers and morphology. The results imply recognition of five genera (Acanthochlamys (Xerophyta (Barbacenia (Barbaceniopsis, Vellozia)))), solving the long-standing controversies among recent classifications of the family. They also suggest a Gondwanan origin for Velloziaceae, with a vicariant pattern of distribution.