Interrelationships of the ostariophysan fishes (Teleostei)

摘要: The history of ostariophysan classification is summarized and it noted that traditional concepts relationships have never been supported by characters found to be unique the taxa. We present a new hypothesis among four five major lineages: Cypriniformes, Characiformes, Siluroidei, Gymnotoidei (Otophysi). Cypriniforms are sister-group remaining three (Characiphysi), characiforms siluroids plus gymnotoids (Siluriformes). Placement Gonorynchiformes as Otophysi additional evidence. Each lineages monophyletic. Analysis was concentrated upon species thought least specialized within each lineage; choices these discussed. Chanos determined relatively primitive gonorynchiform morphologically all other Recent members order. Opsariichthys Zacco cypriniforms. propose monophyletic group comprising Citharinidae Distichodontidae forms characiforms. Within two families, Xenocharax specialized. suggest Hepsetus, erythrinids, ctenoluciids more derived than distichodontids citharinids, may form die Diplomystes substantiated. Our evidence suggests Sternopygus most gymnotoid morphologically; but rather being gymnotoids, lineage called Sternopygidae Mago-Leccia. Previous explanations otophysan distribution based on notions which unsupported presented herein. own analysis serves primarily make clear extent sympatry, therefore probability dispersal, lineages. together with widespread ostariophysans, older previously supposed, our hypotheses implies many characiform evolved before separation Africa South America. Further understanding must await phylogenetic so distributions linked vicariance patterns dispersal events can sorted out.