Phylogeography of the chestnut‐tailed antbird (Myrmeciza hemimelaena) clarifies the role of rivers in Amazonian biogeography

摘要: Aim  We examined patterns of spatial and temporal diversification the Amazonian endemic chestnut-tailed antbird, Mymeciza hemimelaena (Thamnophilidae), to evaluate a widespread avian taxon across rivers that potentially represent major natural barriers. Location  Lowland Amazonia. Methods  Sequences mitochondrial ND2 cytochrome b genes were investigated from 65 individuals distributed throughout entire range M. hemimelaena, including two currently valid subspecies h. pallens. Based on combination phylogeographic tools, molecular dating, population genetic methods, we reconstructed spatio-temporal scenario in Amazon. Results  The data revealed three genetically divergent monophyletic groups which can also be distinguished by morphological vocal characters. Two these clades correspond previously described taxa pallens, are separated upper Madeira River, main tributary. third clade is between middle reaches River much smaller tributaries Jiparana Aripuana, and, although treated as clearly constitutes an independent evolutionary lineage probably deserving separate species status. Molecular clock analyses indicate this group occurred Pleistocene, with demographic fluctuations assumed for pallens. Main  conclusions  findings implicate barriers driving complex. Levels DNA divergence associated traits support its division into at least comparatively small ranges. existence unrecognized complex, high degree structuring found underscore pervasiveness cryptic endemism Amazonia importance DNA-based taxonomic studies providing accurate estimates diversity essential conservation planning.