Supporting Spartina: Interdisciplinary perspective shows Spartina as a distinct solid genus

Abstract

In 2014, a DNA-based phylogenetic study confirming the paraphyly of the grasssubtribeSporobolinaeproposed the creation of a large monophyletic genusSporobolus, includ-ing (among others) species previously included in the generaSpartina,Calamovilfa, andSporobolus. Spartinaspecies have contributed substantially (and continue contributing) to ourknowledge in multiple disciplines, including ecology, evolutionary biology, molecular biology,biogeography, experimental ecology, biological invasions, environmental management, restora-tion ecology, history, economics, and sociology. There is no rationale so compelling to subsumethe nameSpartinaas a subgenus that could rival the striking, global iconic history and use ofthe nameSpartinafor over 200 yr. We do not agree with the subjective arguments underlyingthe proposal to changeSpartinatoSporobolus.We understand the importance of both theobjective phylogenetic insights and of the subjective formalized nomenclature and hope thatby opening this debate we will encourage positive feedback that will strengthen taxonomicdecisions with an interdisciplinary perspective. We consider that the strongly distinct, mono-phyletic cladeSpartinashould simply and efficiently be treated as the genusSpartina.