Baraminological Analysis of the Picidae (Vertebrata: Aves: Piciformes) and Implications for Creationist Design Arguments

摘要: The Picidae (woodpeckers, wrynecks and piculets) comprise a family within the near passerine order Piciformes. Creationists have often appealed to unique anatomical behavioural specializations found in woodpeckers as evidence of divine design. However, until now no baraminological studies group been undertaken. This paper reports baraminic distance correlation analysis 50 morphological characters (mostly related hind limb musculature) 20 taxa (12 picids eight outgroup taxa). results show that woodpeckers, piculets form well-defined united by significant positive separated from seven (barbets, toucans toucanets) negative correlation. eighth taxon, honeyguide Indicator , was neither positively nor negatively correlated with other dataset. suggest all members constitute single holobaramin. conclusion is consistent hybridization data indicating monobaraminic status at least eleven genera six nine tribes Picidae. Since are holobaraminic, since not possess full range “typical” woodpecker characters, this suggests some these traits arose mediated design during intrabaraminic diversification. has implications for our understanding origin natural evil (in case, insectivory) standard creationist arguments concerning anatomy behaviour need be modified.