Abstract:
The genus Artemisia is one of the largest of the Asteraceae family. It is abundant and diverse,
with complex taxonomic relations. In order to expand the knowledge about the classification of
Kazakhstan species and compare it with classical studies, matK genes of nine local species including
endemic were sequenced. The infrageneric rank of one of them (A. kotuchovii) had remained
unknown. In this study, we analysed results of sequences using two methods — NJ and
MP and compared them with a median-joining haplotype network. As a result, monophyletic origin
of the genus and subgenus Dracunculus was confirmed. Closeness of A. kotuchovii to other species
of Dracunculus suggests its belonging to this subgenus. Generally, matK was shown as a
useful barcode marker for the identification and investigation of Artemisia genus.
