Integrating morphology, niche modelling, and molecular data to disentangle taxonomic challenges in a species complex of Calibrachoa (Solanaceae)

Abstract

Plant species delimitation can be difficult when clearly visible diagnostic characteristics are lacking. Historically, phenotypic similarity has been used as a criterion to group individuals into species. However, these traits can fail to discriminate between morphologically similar species or improperly subdivide species through inaccurate interpretation of natural phenotypic diversity.