The mammals of Northern Melanesia: biogeography, systematics and ecology

摘要: Northern Melanesia's mammals are poorly known, and perceived deficiencies in faunal records taxonomic descriptions have, until now, hindered detailed analyses. I examined aspects of biogeogra- phy, systematics ecology the region's mammalian faunas. Generalized linear models (GLMs) were used to test for differences rates persistence four orders mammal on continental shelf islands. Ochiai endemism indices delineate regions high influential biogeo- graphic boundaries. A non -parametric multivariate regression tree GLMs identify influences abiotic variables species richness. Genetic sequencing, microsatellite geno- typing, morphological ecological data determine evolutionary relationships among widespread insectivorous bat family, Hipposideridae. islands support faunas that reflect poor over -water dispersal abilities non-volant mammals; lower long - term dasyuromorphs diprotodonts; pronounced diversification Family Pteropodi- dae; comparative lack speciation families. Analyses produced a clear hierar- chical classification based their physical attributes assem- blages, providing first empirical analyses New Guinea's zoo- geography, adding biogeographic theory at both regional local scales.