The phylogenetic position and diversity of the enigmatic mongrel frog Nothophryne Poynton, 1963 (Amphibia, Anura)

摘要: The phylogenetic relationships of the African mongrel frog genus Nothophryne are poorly understood. We provide first molecular assessment position of, and diversity within, this monotypic from across its range-the Afromontane regions Malawi Mozambique. Our analysis using a two-tiered approach allowed us to place in Pyxicephalidae. Within family, grouped with Tomopterna, hypothesis judged significantly better than alternative hypotheses proposed based on morphology. analyses populations range suggest presence several cryptic species, at least one species per mountain. Formal recognition these is pending but there major conservation concern for narrowly distributed an area impacted by habitat change. tree pyxicephalids used examine evolution life history, ancestral habitat, biogeography group.