# Phylogenetic analysis suggests early divergence followed by convergent morphological evolution in the Silene sections Odontopetalae and Sordidae (Caryophyllaceae)

## TL;DR

This study uses genetic data to show that Silene sordida and related species evolved from a common ancestor around 5.5 million years ago, despite their different appearances.

## Contribution

The study provides new insights into the evolutionary history of Silene species using a multispecies coalescent framework and genetic markers.

## Key findings

- Silene sordida is closely related to Silene sect. Odontopetalae, diverging around 5.5 million years ago.
- Morphological differences between the species are likely due to convergent evolution and ecological divergence.
- The study highlights the limitations of using morphology alone for classifying Silene species.

## Abstract

The genus Silene presents significant taxonomic challenges, particularly for groups such as S.
sect.
Odontopetalae and the monotypic S.
sect.
Sordidae. This study investigates the evolutionary relationship between the narrowly endemic Silene
sordida and the widespread S.
odontopetala to resolve these ambiguities. Using a multispecies coalescent framework with five genetic markers and expanded taxon sampling, the species tree and divergence times were estimated. The results revealed a moderately supported sister relationship between S.
sordida and S.
sect.
Odontopetalae, with their divergence estimated at approximately 5.5 million years ago, following the Messinian salinity crisis. Despite their profound morphological and ecological differences, the results suggest a shared evolutionary origin. This study underscores the limitations of morphology-based classification in Silene and highlights the critical roles of ecological divergence, historical biogeography, and convergent evolution in shaping the genus’s diversity. The results provide a clearer understanding of the evolutionary processes driving diversification in these complex lineages.