This is the first of two volumes on Gentianaceae. Comprising twelve chapters, it centres upon the characterization and ecology of Gentianaceae worldwide, with emphasis on the application of molecular and cytological approaches in relation to taxonomy. The first three chapters consider the classification of the family and review the advances in research since the earlier revision published in 2002, which resulted in the reclassification of some plants and the naming of new genera. The next chapter provides the most comprehensive report to date of the systematics of South American Neotropical woody Gentians. Other reviews include details of the Gentianaceae in Eastern Europe. The key biochemical steps that result in the diversity of Gentian flower colors, the cytology of European species and an historical account of the importance of Gentians in herbal medicines are also covered. Furthermore, an analysis of gene expression in overwintering buds is presented, discussing several aspects of plant taxonomy, phenotypic characteristics, phylogeography and pedigree. Two contributions highlight the importance of Gentians in India, and the last chapter presents evidence for the importance of Glomeromycota in developing arbuscular mycorrhizal associations with the roots of Gentians.

This volume provides the basis for the biotechnological approaches that are considered in the companion bookThe Gentianaceae Volume 2: Biotechnology and Applications.

Morphological Characteristics of the Family Gentianaceae.- Classification and Evolution of the Family Gentianaceae.- A Monographic Revision of the Neotropical GenusMacrocarpaea(Gentianaceae) in Ecuador.- A Review of Taxonomy and Distribution of the Gentianaceae in the Ukraine.- Distribution, Ecology and Some Taxonomical Notes of GeneraGentiana L. andGentianella Moech (Gentianaceae) in the Balkans.- Biochemical and Morphological Determination of Flower Color inGentianaceae.- Karyology of European Species of GenusGentiana L.- 21st Century Centauries An Updated Review onCentaurium Hill and Allies (Gentianaceae).- Genes Expressed in the Overwinter Buds of Gentian(Gentiana spp.): Application to Taxonomic, Phylogenetic and Phylogeographical Analyses.-Exacum bicolorRoxb. an Exquisite, Under Exploited Wild Ornamental.- IndianSwertiafrom Eastern Himalaya: Strategies of Conservation and Biotechnological Improvements.- The Role of Arbuscular Mycorrhiza in the Growth and Development of Plants in the Family Gentianaceae.