Phylogeny of Tetraoninae and other galliform birds using mitochondrial 12S and ND2 genes.

摘要: Abstract The avian subfamily Tetraoninae (grouse and ptarmigan) is a Holarctic group in the order Galliformes distinguished by morphological adaptations to cold environments behavioral traits associated with elaborate courtship. Here we investigate relationships of 17 tetraonines 12 other galliform species using mitochondrial 12S ND2 sequence data. We found support for recent phylogenetic classification that separates genus Dendragapus into two genera, Falcipennis Dendragapus. In addition, tetraonine clade which first divergence between Bonasa umbellus all others, followed bonasia/Bonasa sewerzowi remaining tetraonines. canadensis sister four Tetrao species, Centrocercus obscurus/Tympanuchus clade. Our data indicate basal position Cracidae Megapodiidae among five recognized families. also strong monophyly Phasianidae, although relative positions Numididae Odontiphoridae remains unresolved. use maximum likelihood approach infer ages 37 mya Phasianidae 28 mya Meleagris gallopavo. These estimates must be viewed as tentative they depend on tests rates molecular evolution accurate fossil dates.