Anisophylaceae

Anisophylaceae is a small family of flowering plants that has been variably circumscribed by taxonomists. In modern classifications, it is recognized as a distinct family within the order Sapindales.

History and circumscription: The family has sometimes been treated as a subset of Sapindaceae or Anacardiaceae, or as a separate lineage in its own right. In APG-based classifications, Anisophylaceae is generally treated as a distinct family, reflecting its unique morphological and molecular traits. The family’s composition is modest and is mainly represented by the genus Anisophylus; some classifications list additional related genera, but this is not universally accepted.

Distribution and habitat: Species of Anisophylaceae are native to tropical Asia and the western Pacific, including parts of Southeast Asia, Melanesia, and the Pacific islands. They typically occur in tropical forests and related habitats.

Characteristics and phylogeny: Members are woody plants, typically trees or shrubs. Flowers are usually inconspicuous, and fruit types vary among species. Molecular studies have produced differing placements for Anisophylaceae within Sapindales, and the family’s precise phylogenetic relationships remain a subject of research. The current consensus positions Anisophylaceae as a small, distinct lineage within Sapindales, with Anisophylus as its principal genus.