The XIV OPTIMA (Organization for the Phyto-Taxonomic Investigation of the Mediterranean Area) Meeting in Palermo (9-15 September 2013) has been brought to conclusion. It was attended by 176 participants from 28 different countries and comprised 16 Symposia with 79 lectures as well as 68 poster presentations. This OPTIMA was led by Prof. Francesco Raimondo and Prof. Gianniantonio Domina.
Ahmed Gawhari
OPTIMA XIV, Summer 2013.
I have met and talked to many new scientists from different countries.
It was a very interesting conference and I had the chance to discuss my work with people who have an interest in the Phyto-Taxonomic study of the Mediterranean Area and the future of Mediterranean floristic research.
I have strengthened of relationships with Mediterranean-centred plant taxonomists.
XIV OPTIMA 9-15 September 2013
I have participated in the OPTIMA Meeting through two presentations entitled:
1. An updated checklist and analysis of thirty four families from the Libyan flora
An updated checklist and analysis of thirty four families from the Libyan flora is the first chapter on my PhD, this has been conducted an updated checklist covering 34 families starting with the primulaceae, ending with Illecebraceae belongs to 118 genera and 284 species. Updated families in the light of modern taxonomic research regarding recognized names in the Checklist that have occurred according to (APGIII), Mediterranean check list (Med-checklist), Euro+Med and the Flora of Libya.
2. Using DNA barcoding techniques to identify the Malva species in Libya, using nr DNA and cpDNA genetic markers
Using DNA barcoding techniques to identify the Malva species in Libya is the second chapter on my PhD research; this has been conducted to use DNA barcode to identify and recognition of Malva species native to Libya as an example of the application of barcodes to local flora.
The aim is to answer the questions:
a) Do conventional DNA barcodes succeed in resolving morphologically distinct Malva species in Libya?
b) Can DNA Barcoding reliably and consistently distinguish the native Malva species in Libya?
For more information on the conference see the book of abstracts (pages) 121 & 168 on the web site: http://www.optima-bot.org/meetings/XIVAbstracts.pdf
For more information on the conference see web site: