Recently Published Article – “Molecular Systematics, Taxonomy and Distribution of the Pyrrhura Picta–Leucotis Complex”

Journal: The Open Ornithology Journal

Author(s): Thomas Arndt, Michael Wink

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Abstract

Introduction:

The relationships within the Pyrrhura species complex are partly unresolved. In this study, a comprehensive phylogenetic analysis of the Pyrrhura picta-leucotis complex was carried out, covering all species except P. subandina.

Material and Methods:

We made a morphological analysis of 745 preserved specimens of all the taxa in different museums. Nucleotide sequences of the mitochondrial cytochrome gene were generated and used to reconstruct a molecular phylogeny of Pyrrhura.

Results and Discussion:

Our results show that the complex is divided into 6 main groups comprising 15 species. P. dilutissima, regarded up to now as a subspecies of P. peruviana, acquires species status and three new subspecies are described. We also provide evidence that P. roseifrons is a paraphyletic group, indicating the existence of probably 3 lineages of which 2 deserve species status.

To access this article, please visit: https://benthamopen.com/ABSTRACT/TOOENIJ-10-53

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