Sino-Himalayan mountains act as cradles of diversity and immigration centres in the diversification of parrotbills (Paradoxornithidae)

摘要: Aim Montane regions like the Sino-Himalayas constitute global diversity hotspots. Various mechanisms such as in situ adaptive divergence, speciation following immigration or allopatric diversification in complex landscapes have been proposed to account for exceptional found a particular clade montane setting. We investigated macroevolutionary patterns test these different hypotheses continental radiation of Sino-Himalayan bird group, parrotbills (Paradoxornithidae). Location Sino-Himalayan region, Indo-Burma. Methods We used phylogenetic comparative methods based on multilocus, time-calibrated phylogeny reconstruct lineage diversification, biogeographical history, morphological evolution well climate niche history using ecological modelling. Results The started c. 12 Ma, diversifying at an apparent constant rate over time. The appears be complex, within-region mountains was restricted China. Size concentrated early phase parrotbill radiation, whereas shape did not differ from Brownian motion. no indication conservatism, with occurring throughout parrotbills. Conclusions Parrotbills diversified within time span increased regional orogenesis and associated strong change. While south-west central Chinese were revealed species pump, triggered by topography high habitat turnover, Himalayas chiefly result immigration. Evidence continuous specialization absence conservatism could interpreted consequence ongoing climate- habitat-induced opportunities. demonstrates influence multiple drivers single group due dynamic geological palaeoclimatic region illustrates nature radiations.