The phylogenetic relationships of the electric catfish family Malapteruridae (Teleostei: Siluroidei)

摘要: Among siluroid fishes (catfishes), the Malapteruridae uniquely possess an electrogenic organ. Although much attention has been paid to anatomy and physiology of electric organ, little emphasis given other anatomical characters, particularly with regard their indicating phylogenetic relationships. Ten character complexes involving cranial bones, muscles, swimbladder connections vertebral column are here analysed compared those siluroids. It is concluded that despite its obvious specializations (autapomorphies) basically a plesiomorphic group relationships lie some taxa belonging Old-World Siluridae. The Siluridae thus paraphyletic assemblage, included having close Schilbeidae. evolutionary potential for development organ accounted by loss rigid connection between pectoral girdle skull associated modification of...