Molecular phylogenetic analyses reveal multiple long-distance dispersal events and extensive cryptic speciation in

Introduction: The terrestrial orchid genus Methods: Here, we sample widely throughout the generic range, including 45 named taxa and multiple accessions referable to several widespread 'macrospecies', as well as material of equivocal identity and probable undescribed status, for the first time enabling an evaluation of taxonomic boundaries at both species and sectional level. Using nuclear ( Results: The genus is strongly supported as monophyletic, as are each of its three sections. However, the number of flowers in the inflorescence and other floral characters are poor indicators of sectional affinity. Dated ancestral area analysis supports an origin in Africa in the Early Oligocene, with spread eastwards to Asia occurring in the Late Miocene, plausibly via the Gomphotherium land bridge at a time when it supported woodland and savanna ecosystems. Discussion: Taxonomic radiation in Asia within the last 8 million years ties in with dramatic Himalayan-Tibetan Plateau uplift and associated intensification of the Asia monsoon. Multiple long-range migrations appear to have occurred thereafter, as the genus colonised Malesia and Oceania from the Pliocene onwards. The bulk of contemporary species diversity is relatively recent, potentially explaining the ubiquity of cryptic speciation, which leaves numerous species overlooked and unnamed. Widespread disjunct species pairs hint at high mobility across continents, extinction and a history of climate-induced vicariance. Persistent taxonomic challenges are highlighted.