First record of phytomelanin in aerial vegetative organs and its evolutionary implications in Lychnophorinae (Vernonieae: Asteraceae)

New findings on occurrence, deposition, and evolution of phytomelanin in aerial vegetative organs are important advances in the knowledge of this subject, particularly for Asteraceae. The results indicate that the occurrence of phytomelanin, mainly in vegetative organs, is underestimated and understanding the distribution of this pigment may bring light to new evolutionary perspectives related to this complex plant family. In addition to this evidence, melanins are considered highly protective substances in cells of living organisms, with remarkable functions. Therefore, considering that studies of the chemical nature of this pigment show a basic structure common among melanized organisms, future melanin research in plants may reveal unexpected ecologicaland evolutionary implications.