Does Primula intricata Gren. et Godr. Merit Species Rank? A Taxonomic Revision Based on nrDNA, cpDNA and AFLP Data

Abstract

Primula intricata Gren. et Godr. has an unclear taxonomic status: it was originally described as a distinct species but subsequently was considered a subspecies (Primula elatior subsp. intricata) or even a variety (P. elatior var. intricata ) of Primula elatior (L.) Hill. No prior genetic studies were performed on this group of Primulaceae, therefore we considered useful to investigate taxonomies boundaries within the P. elatior-intricata group. We explored genetic differences between Primula intricata and Primula elatior group by applying three different types of molecular markers: nuclear ribosomal DNA (ITS1), chloroplast DNA (spacer trnH-psbA and intron trnL) and Amplified Fragment Length Polymorphisms (AFLP). We found a solid differentiation between P. intricata and P. elatior group, differentiation that was confirmed by all the employed molecular markers. This finding enabled us to propose a valid species rank for Primula intricata, as a separate taxon from the P. elatior group.