I02: Pleistocene effects on the genealogical structure of avian populations. Avise, J.C.

Archawaranon, M. & Wongwasana, P. 1998. Morphological variation of Hill Mynas in Thailand. In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr., Durban. Ostrich 69: 395.

It has been known for years that there are two subspecies of Hill Mynas in Thailand, Gracula religiosa intermedia and G. r. religiosa. In our study we measured weight, sizes of head, body, wing, tarsus, tail, bill and wattle of 578 birds from different places all over Thailand. The results showed that body and bill sizes increased significantly to the south (6ºN). Individuals in the north (20ºN) were the smallest. We recognise five races, compared to the previous races. The three new races, found in the middle part of the country, had characteristics of both northern and southern birds, especially body size, bill size and curve, and shape of wattle which was determined by the percentage of connection line between the front and rear parts. They have 90, 80 and 30% of connection line, compared to 100% of northern birds and 0% of southern ones. These three new races probably originated as a result of interbreeding between northern and southern populations. Genetic variation is possible because different characteristics are favoured in different environments.

Key words: Hill Myna, morphology, hybridisation

 

Avise, J.C. 1998. Pleistocene effects on the genealogical structure of avian populations. In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr., Durban. Ostrich 69: 395.

Pleistocene biogeographic events traditionally have been ascribed a major role in promoting speciations and in sculpting the present-day diversity and distributions of avian taxa. However, this paradigm recently came under challenge from a review of interspecific mitochondrial DNA genetic distances in birds: most sister-species separations dated to the Pliocene. Here I summarise the literature on intraspecific mtDNA phylogeographic patterns in birds and reinterpret the molecular evidence bearing on Pleistocene influences. At least 37 of 63 avian species surveyed (59%) are sundered into recognisable phylogeographic units and 28 of these separations (76%) trace to the Pleistocene. Furthermore, use of phylogroup separation times within species as minimum estimates of speciation durations (i.e. how long it takes to produce new species) also indicates that many protracted speciations, considered individually, probably extended through time from Pliocene origins to Pleistocene completions. When avian speciation is viewed properly as an extended temporal process rather than as a point event, Pleistocene conditions appear to have played an active role both in initiating major phylogeographic separations within species, and in completing speciations that had been inaugurated earlier.

Key words: mitochondrial DNA, population structure, phylogeography, speciation

 

Barlow, J.C., Peck, M.K. & Walker, M.R. 1998. Genetic and cultural evolution of west Indian scrub vireos subgenus Vireo. In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr., Durban. Ostrich 69: 395.

West Indian scrub-dwelling vireos (subgenus Vireo) comprise nine species inhabiting the Greater Antillian "big" islands and the neighbouring Bahamas, Turks and Caicos and the Colombian islands (San Andras and Providencia of the SW Caribbean). Field studies the conducted in the region since 1971 show these taxa to resemble each other closely in breeding and foraging behaviour. However, although having calls largely in common their songs fall into two distinct types. Chatter song (same syllable repeated serially, e.g. V. nanus) vs. song of two (type A. modestus) or three or more (type B. latimeri) different syllables. Sequencing of 1035 bps of cyt-b and 350 bps of CR for the island taxa and the continental species: V. griseus (presumed ancestral representative) and V. pallens (the latter's sister taxon) produce two clades (5% divergence) consisting of continental vs. island forms. Among the W.I. vireos divergence is 3 to 4%. Based on a mutation rate of 2% per 1my, this suggests a single colonisation event ca 2.5 mya followed by fairly rapid spread among W.I. islands with local genetic divergence facilitated by isolation yielding the present species. Mapping of song types on resulting trees groups some chatter singers (nanus, approximans, caribaeus) but fails to support equivalent song evolution among 3⁺singers. This implicates founder phenomena in song differentiation.

Key words: speciation, song, vireos, phylogeny, evolution

 

Barnes, K.N. 1998. The evolution of Africa's arid zones: The larks as a case study. In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr., Durban. Ostrich 69: 396.

Larks (Alaudidae) present a unique opportunity to study the evolution of arid zones in Africa as they are a highly distinct family, largely confined to Africa and with no apparent close relatives. Lark species richness is greatest in the semi-arid and arid regions of Africa, with the two primary centres of endemism occurring in the north-east and south-west arid zones, where most of the currently recognised species are endemic or near-endemic. The two widely separated arid systems have common biological origins and have experienced common vicariance events which have driven speciation. As a result, both areas are centres of endemism which support Africa's most unique sets of biomes and their associated species. This study aims to examine and resolve the phylogeny and species phylogeography of Africa's arid zone Alaudidae by sequencing part of the mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) cytochrome-b gene, and combining this with quantitative data on distribution, habitat preference and diet. The concepts surrounding the reconstruction of the evolutionary history of the Alaudidae based on phylogenetic relationships, current biogeographical patterns and environmental and ecological constraints apparent in the two distinct zoochoria shall be presented.

Key words: Alaudidae, mitochondrial DNA, evolution, endemism, biogeography

 

Bell, D.A., Lawson, R.L. & Hartley, R. 1998. Molecular phylogeny of the Peregrine Falcon, Teita Falcon and related species: A global perspective. In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr., Durban. Ostrich 69: 396.

A molecular phylogeny of the Peregrine Falcon Falco peregrinus, Teita Falcon Falco fasciinucha and related species will be presented. The phylogeny is based on a world-wide survey of nucleotide sequence variation in the mitochondrial b gene of the Peregrine Falcon. For this study, 33 individuals representing 12 subspecies of Peregrine Falcons were sequenced and compared to other species, including the Teita Falcon and Lanner Falcon Falco biarmicus. The results offer insights into the geographic origin and ancient divergence of the Peregrine and Teita Falcons. Aspects of intraspecific mtDNA variation, gene flow and morphological change in the evolution of selected falcons will be highlighted.

Key words: Falco peregrinus, phylogeny, Falco fasciinucha, mtDNA

 

Bloomer, P., Ryan, P.G. & Crowe, T.M. 1998. Some surprises from a molecular phylogeny for Southern African larks. In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr., Durban. Ostrich 69: 397.

Larks exhibit the highest degree of endemism of any speciose bird family in southern Africa. We obtained complete sequences for the mitochondrial DNA cytochrome-b gene for 28 southern African lark taxa, representing all of the major groups that breed within the subregion. Significant genetic differences were found among taxa widely regarded as subspecies (e.g. between Sabota Lark Mirafra sabota and Longbilled Lark Certhilauda curvirostris), suggesting that southern Africa supports an even larger number of lark species, most of which are endemic to the region. Cladistic analysis revealed some surprising relationships among lark taxa. Outgroup rooting was problematic given the apparently early split of the larks from the main passerine radiation. Depending on the choice of outgroup, either Rudd’s Lark Heteromirafra ruddi or Finchlarks Eremopterix and Rudd’s Lark are basal. With some outgroups, Finchlarks are a derived group linked to Calandrella. The consistently basal position of Rudd’s Lark suggests that Heteromirafra is an ancient lineage, which is consistent with its highly disjunct and fragmented range. Longbilled and Shortclawed Larks Certhilauda chuana are highly derived, and are related to Grey’s Lark Ammomanes grayi, rather than the other species typically placed in Certhilauda. The analysis confirmed that the peculiar Sclater’s Lark Calandrella sclateri is closely related to other members of the genus Calandrella.

Key words: Alaudidae, systematics, cladistic, DNA, classification

 

Cracraft, J., Espinosa, A., Nunn, G., Helm-Bychowski, K. & Feinstein, J. 1998. Phylogenetic relationships and radiation of the corvine oscines. In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr., Durban. Ostrich 69: 398.

The corvines encompass one of the two major lineages of oscine passeriforms. Nearly world-wide in distribution, corvines have diversified extensively in Australasia to produce numerous family-level taxa and more than a thousand species. The first major hypothesis for corvine interrelationships was provided by the DNA hybridisation studies of Sibley and Ahlquist, and in a series of papers they argued for the likelihood of a single invasion of Australia by a corvine ancestor. We have sequenced over 2000 bp of mitochondrial gene sequences for most of the higher taxa, and, intensively, for the paradisaeinine radiation on New Guinea. These data have been combined with a morphological data set to produce a refined hypothesis of corvine relationships. Using this hypothesis, along with assessments of genetic divergence and the emerging fossil record of corvines, it is possible to clarify the historical pattern of the corvine radiation within Australasia. The story is more complicated than previously thought. The major groups of corvines have had a long history in Australasia, yet several have also radiated extensively relatively recently.

Key words: corvines, phylogeny, mtDNA

 

de Klerk, H.M. & Crowe, T.M. 1998. Patterns of distribution of Afrotropical birds. In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr., Durban. Ostrich 69: 398.

Identification of patterns of distribution, richness, and endemism are needed before underlying causal processes can be understood. Binary data were gathered for 1436 terrestrial bird species endemic to the Afrotropical mainland at a one degree square scale through extensive literature reviews. These data, as well as non-passerine and passerine subsets thereof, were investigated by cluster, ordination and turnover measures to determine areas of relatively homogenous avifaunal composition, termed avifaunal zones. Patterns of richness and endemism were regressed against a variety of environmental variables, in an attempt to elucidate causal processes. Broad patterns of avifaunal distribution reflected major vegetation types within the Afrotropics, although precise zonal boundaries varied depending on the subset used. Causal processes of subdivisions within major avifaunal zones differed among the zones.

Key words: birds, Afrotropical, distribution, conservation, mapping

 

Donatelli, R.J. 1998. The relationships of Neotropical and of Afrotropical woodpeckers: Dispersion or vicariance model? In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr., Durban. Ostrich 69: 399.

The question concerning the relationships of biotas between Africa and South America has been mainly a descriptive subject for a long time. The development of cladistic methods of phylogeny reconstructions allowed the transformation of descriptive accounts into explicit phylogenetic hypotheses. In relation to Woodpeckers an actual analysis of their possible relationships is missing. Thus, the goals of this research are: (1) To find out whether there are any cladistic relationships between the woodpeckers of neotropical and afrotropical regions. (2) How does this relate to the geographic and geologic histories of these regions in question? (3) What would be the more appropriate biogegraphical model to explain their current distributions? Twelve species of Picidae were studied in terms of: (1) Anatomy - jaw apparatus. (2) Systematics - with the methodology of phylogenetic systematics. (3) Biogeography. The results showed that the Picidae are a monophyletic group represented by two subfamilies: Jynginae and Picinae. The Picinae is formed by two tribes, Picumnini and Picini. From these results, hypotheses are considered to explain the current distribution of the Picidae. The vicariant model is more consistent with the current distribution of the Picinae, but that of the Jynginae could only be explained by dispersion.

Key words: systematics, biogeography, anatomy, woodpeckers

 

Driskell, A.C. 1998. Molecular systematics and biogeography of the honeyeaters, Family Meliphagidae. In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr., Durban. Ostrich 69: 400.

Distributed throughout the south Pacific, the family Meliphagidae contains more than 130 species in over 40 genera and has its centre of diversity in Australia and New Guinea. Within Australia and New Guinea, the honeyeaters are the largest and most widespread, and arguably the most diverse group of birds. They occupy every available type of habitat from montane forest and tropical rainforest, to the arid interior of Australia. The group has undergone considerable morphological and ecological diversification, and includes members that exhibit co-operative breeding behaviour. Remarkably, very little is known about the phylogenetic relationships of this large and important family of birds. I have undertaken a study using molecular techniques to elucidate phylogenetic relationships within the family. This phylogeny will then be used to examine the correlation between ecological variables and the occurrence of co-operative breeding in the family and to explore morphological evolution among honeyeaters. My study presently includes the majority of the Australian and New Guinean honeyeater genera and sequence data has been gathered from four loci. Results affirm monophyly of the family Meliphagidae (including the Australian chats, Epthianura and Ashbyia). The genera Phylidonyris and Certhionyx have been shown to be non-monophyletic. Results also indicate that the New Guinean endemic genera did not arise as a single radiation.

Key words: Passeriformes, Australasia, systematics, phylogeny

 

Foeger, M., Pegoraro, K & Parson, W. 1998. Phylogenetic relationship of Bald Geronticus calvus and Waldrapp Ibis G. eremita: Evidence from mt-DNA sequences. In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr., Durban. Ostrich 69: 400.

The ibises of the genus Geronticus share both ecological and behavioural features which clearly separate them from other species of the family Threskiornithidae. We examined whether these similarities are reflected in a close phylogenetic relationship. We sequenced two segments of the mitochondrial DNA (300 bp of the cytochrome-b gene, app. 500 bp of the 16s rDNA). Parsimony analysis and neighbour joining were performed to interpret the sequence data. Published sequences on other Ciconiiformes were used for outgroup rooting. In the cytochrome-b gene the two species differed only by two base substitutions (both transitions in the third position of the codon), which had no effect on the amino acid sequence of the protein. In the 16s rDNA segment six transitions and one insertion-deletion event could be observed. By the application of a molecular clock established for birds we tried to assess the timing of the split between the two species and to correlate it with their distribution pattern. The strong evidence for a close relationship may also be useful for the conservation of these endangered birds.

Key words: Threskiornithidae, Ciconiiformes, speciation, molecular clock, Geronticus

 

Friesen, V.L., Lodha, V., Monteiro, L.R. & Furness, R.W. 1998. Evidence for sympatric speciation in the Band-rumped Storm-Petrel Oceanodroma castro. In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr., Durban. Ostrich 69: 400.

Sympatric speciation involves the development of reproductive isolation between two or more populations within the breeding area. Although evidence for sympatric speciation has been documented in plants and invertebrates, no definitive cases of sympatric speciation have been recorded in birds. Band-rumped Storm-petrels Oceanodroma castro breed in tropical and sub- tropical regions of the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. Data from brood patches, incubation periods, chick body size and recaptures of adults suggest that, on two islands in the Azores, two temporally separate breeding populations exist. Morphometric analyses of adults indicated that birds breeding within the same season are highly similar, whereas those breeding in different seasons are phenotypically different. We compared variation in part of the mitochondrial control region among Band-Rumped Storm-Petrels breeding in the Azores, and found that birds breeding in the same season on different islands are genetically similar, but that those breeding in different seasons are highly divergent. Band-rumped storm-petrels breeding at a nearby colony off the coast of Portugal differed from both seasonal populations in the Azores. Phylogenetic analyses of control region sequences, as well as variation in microsatellite loci, further supported this result. Thus, band-rumped storm-petrels breeding in different seasons in the Azores are genetically divergent, and probably differentiated sympatrically. Divergence may have occurred through limitations on nest-sites in crowded colonies, forcing birds to time-share nests.

Key words: Band-rumped Storm-Petrel, morphometrics, mitochondrial DNA, microsatellites, sympatric speciation

 

Groth, J.G. 1998. Molecular phylogeny of the cardueline finches and Hawaiian honeycreepers. In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr., Durban. Ostrich 69: 401.

The molecular phylogeny of the cardueline finches and Hawaiian honeycreepers was estimated using mitochondrial DNA sequence. A 1.8-kb region, including the complete cytochrome-b and ND6 genes, was compared for 55 taxa of fringillid finches. All 18 recognised genera of carduelines plus most of the Hawaiian honeycreeper genera were included, some using old museum skin material as DNA sources. Parsimony analysis of the data indicated that carduelines are divisible into about 10 relatively well resolved clades. The deepest nodes on the fringillid phylogeny show Fringilla at the base, followed by a hawfinch clade. Other basal relationships were less well resolved, including the position of a Hawaiian honeycreeper clade. The phyletic position of a number of problematic taxa, including Pyrrhoplectes, Callacanthis, Haematospiza, and Melamprosops were inferred from the data. In a number of instances, congeneric species clearly belonged to different clades, suggesting severe problems with current generic-level classification in this group. For example, DNA evidence indicated that the genera Carpodacus, Pinicola, Rhodopechys, and Carduelis are polyphyletic. Plumage characters, which were an important basis for existing classifications, mapped poorly onto the DNA phylogeny.

Key words: cardueline, finch, DNA, museum, systematics

 

Heidrich, P. & Wink, M. 1998. Molecular phylogeny of nocturnal and diurnal raptors inferred from nucleotide sequences of the cytochrome b gene. In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr., Durban. Ostrich 69: 401.

Total DNA was extracted from blood or feathers of more than 200 taxa of diurnal and nocturnal raptors. The mitochondrial cytochrome b gene was amplified by PCR and sequenced directly, either manually with radioactive tracers or automatically using the ALF express system (Pharmacia). Aligned sequences were analysed by maximum parsimony, neighbour joining and maximum likelihood. In-groups included members of the Procellariidae, Lariidae, Charadriidae, Anseridae, Phasianidae, Gruidae, Ciconiidae and Otididae. The analysis reveals that the Strigidae represent a monophyletic group which clusters as a sister group to the Tytonidae. Within the Falconiformes; Accipitridae, Pandionidae, Sagittariidae, Cathartidae, and Falconidae are monophyletic groups, but a monophyletic Falconiformes clade does not exist. It is more likely that the different families of raptors have evolved independently and that their common morphology and ecology represent convergent traits.

Key words: cytochrome b, nucleotide sequence, Strigiformes, Falconiformes, phylogeny

 

Jetz, W. 1998. Patterns and determinants of global distribution in freshwater birds: Linking biogeography, ecology and phylogeny. In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr., Durban. Ostrich 69: 402.

The pronounced uneven distribution of species on the globe is still largely unexplained. In almost all taxa species numbers increase towards the tropics, while their geographic range sizes decrease (Rapoport's rule). To date several studies have addressed these patterns, but only for a limited geographic area or taxonomic group and often without considering the role of phylogeny. Here an ecological rather than taxonomic approach is taken with regards to the species analysed. The patterns are examined on both a global scale and on species level for a well-defined ecological group. Species richness, gradients in latitudinal extent of range and large-scale distributional patterns are analysed for all 534 species of non-marine waterbirds from 33 families. The patterns generally differ markedly between species with different wintering strategies, body sizes and diets. In non-migrants, species richness increases towards the equator. Herbivores are comparatively species rare in the tropics, which suggests a possibly important role for nutrient content of water. Patterns of range size in non-migrants seem to fulfil Rapoport's rule, but here fish feeders provide an exception. If all waterbirds including migrants are considered, latitudinal extent of the species' range decreases with latitude, even if the non-breeding ranges of migrants are included. This supports the temperature range hypothesis of geographic range size. The importance of other biological variables, of phylogeny, climate, landmass area and water availability is reviewed. The results are used to outline a path towards a general model of geographic range size, which will have to consider both, abiotic and biotic factors.

Key words: biogeography, geographic range, macroecology, phylogeny, waterbirds

 

Swedish Museum of Natural History, Stockholm, Sweden, e-mail m70uj52j@students.su.se

Johansson, U.J. 1998. The early evolution of the Trogonidae. In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr., Durban. Ostrich 69: 402.

Trogons (Trogonidae) have a disjunct distribution, occurring pantropical on three continents: in Africa, Asia, and Central and South America. The fossil remains of trogons from Tertiary deposits in Europe indicate that this disjunct distribution is the remnant of a more extensive past distribution. It is likely that this distribution pattern is caused by vicariance events. In this phylogenetic study on the earliest branches of the family, I have sequenced 500 bp of a very conservative, nuclear gene. Eight species were included in the analysis: five South American, two African and one Asian. Preliminary results indicate monophyly of the species in each region and that the African and Asian groups are very close. The New World species are separated from the Old World species by several synapomorphies, possible indicating a very distant relationship and early divergence between the two groups. One possible vicariance event creating this split is the opening of the Atlantic Ocean in late Cretaceous. Trogons could then be one of the groups that survived the K-T boundary.

Key words: trogons, phylogeny, systematics, biogeography

 

1ICAPB, University of Edinburgh, King's Buildings, Edinburgh EH9 3JT, Scotland, UK, e-mail pjones@srv0.bio.ed.ac.uk; ²Natural Resources Institute, Chatham, UK; ³Dept of Wildlife & National Parks, Bulawayo, Zimbabwe

Jones, P.J., Cheke, R.A. & Mundy, P.J. 1998. Migration patterns of Red-billed Queleas Quelea quelea in southern Africa and the validity of Q.q.spoliator. In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr.. Durban, University of Natal. Ostrich 69: 402.

Two subspecies of the Red-billed Quelea Quelea quelea have been described from southern Africa, Q. q. lathamii and Q. q. spoliator, the latter breeding in the mesic south-eastern part of the subcontinent. Both occur during the non-breeding season (May to November) throughout the drier interior of southern Africa within the breeding range of Q. q. lathamii. However, the status of Q. q. spoliator has remained controversial, both because the morphological evidence separating it from lathamii is equivocal, and because ecological and behavioural considerations also argue against its validity. Redbilled Queleas perform regular seasonal migrations in response to the rainfall patterns that determine the availability of their grass seed food. Previous models suggested that subspecific distinctiveness between lathamii and spoliator could not be maintained, because they perform similar migrations in response to the timing and distribution of rainfall across southern Africa, such that they remain sympatric for much of the year and most crucially when they are breeding. We re-examine the morphological data used to identify quelea subpopulations in southern Africa, and discuss the role that differences in migration patterns and the timing of breeding may have in maintaining genetic isolation between them.

Key words: morphometric, subspeciation, sympatry, migration patterns, southern Africa

 

Institute of Geography, Russian Academy of Science, Staromonetny 29, 109017, Moscow, Russia, e-mail milko@biogeo.msk.ru

Lappo, E.G. 1998. Biogeographical analyses of the breeding birds in Eurasian tundra. In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr., Durban. Ostrich 69: 404.

Over the period 1990 to 1997 we studied bird distribution and community structure on a model area of Russian tundra - the Taimyr peninsula. We mapped the breeding ranges of 120 species and made biogeographical analyses based on our data and supplementary data from more than 350 localities in other areas of the Russian Arctic. Species richness of breeding birds decreases five times from forest-tundra to polar deserts, approximately three to four species for each one degree of latitude. This tendency is typical for most of lowland areas but not for mountainous areas of the north-east of Russia. The trend for different systematic groups can vary: Passeriformes species diversity decreases the fastest when moving north; Charadriiformes species richness increases up to the Subarctic tundra, and only then decreases, to the north. The proportion of the species breeding in watersheds and in river valleys (zonal and intrazonal index) is different in latitude subzones of tundra. Maximal zonal index is recorded in arctic tundra due to highest diversity of birds adapted to tundra breeding - waders and waterfowl. Maximal intrazonal index is in Subarctic tundra, because of the large diversity of ecological niches in intrazonal habitats and high number of boreal species. Changes in the structure of breeding range were classified into different types. Many show decreasing trends due to human impact but also enlargement of the ranges for the few species associated with man. Many tundra species have annual fluctuations in breeding distribution and density according to the abundance of lemmings. Most remarkable is the long-term trend of few American species: Calidris melanotos, Limnodromas scolopaceus, Grus canadensis etc. to enlarge their ranges to the west for thousands of kilometres in the last century.

Key words: diversity, conservation, Charadriiformes, Passeriformes, breeding, tundra

 

UNIVAP. Av. Shismma Hifin·, 2911, Säo Paulo, Brazil, e-mail odonata@iconet.com.br

Lencioni, F. 1998. Population dynamics of the birds of a residual forest of the Paraba Valley, Säo Paulo. In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr., Durban. Ostrich 69: 404.

Using thirty years of observations, we detected an annual numeric oscillation with the lowest index of diversity in March (51 species) and the largest in October (85 species). These data represent median values for each species in each season for all ecosystems. Several species seen only in winter were classified as a southern or altitudinal migrants: Cairina moschata, Stephanoxis lalandi, Xenops rutilans, Mackenziaena severa, Cnemotriccus fuscatus. Others were seen for a few days in the spring: Agelaius cyanopus, Procnias nudicollis, Contopus cinereus, Turdus nigriceps, Turdus albicollis, Campephilus robustus and Melanotrochilus fuscus. Certain species observed in April were seen again in August-September such as Pachyramphus polychopterus, Tyrannus melancholicus, Myiodynastes maculatus, Leptotriccus euleri, Turdus amaurochalinus, Vireo olivaceus, Sporophila caerulescens, Sporophila lineola and Tyrannus savana. The second smallest index occurred in April due to the migrants leaving for areas to the north. We noticed one slight increase in diversity during May to July for the migrants arriving from the south. Starting from September, with the migrants’ arrival, the diversity increases to a peak in October, in the spring. In November to December the diversity decreases again. Dispersal to favourable areas occurs. There are among 64 to 68 species.

Key words: population dynamics, residual forest

 

1AK Stoffwechselphysiologie, J.W. Goethe-Universitat Frankfurt/Main, Siesmayerstraße 70, D-60323 Frankfurt/Main, Germany; ²Institut für Pharmazeutische Biologie, Ruprecht-Karls-Universitat Heidelberg, Im Neuenheimer Feld 364, D-69120 Heidelberg, Germany

Manzano, I., Prinzinger, R. & Wink, M. 1998. Phylogeny of African colies: Sequence-analysis of haemoglobin and mitochondrial cytochrome-b gene. In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr., Durban. Ostrich 69: 405.

Colies or mousebirds (Coliiformes) are a phylogenetic old group of only six species restricted exclusively to Africa, south of the Sahara. Their phylogenetic relationships are controversial. We undertook two molecular approaches to get new insights into this problem. (1) Studies of the amino acid sequences of major and minor haemoglobin components lead to the assumption that mousebirds are closely related to parrots, cuckoos and gulls (completed investigations). (2) Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) on nucleotid sequences from mitochondrial cytochrome-b gene including different outgroups. The final results will be presented during the congress (current investigations).

Key words: amino acid, mousebirds, nucleotide sequence, Colius

Department of Environmental Sciences, University of Milan, via Emanueli 15, 20126 Milan, Italy, e-mail rmassa@alpha.disat.unimi.it

Massa, R. 1998. A molecular approach to the taxonomy and biogeography of African parrots. In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr., Durban. Ostrich 69: 406.

We performed random amplified polymorphic DNA analysis from eight African parrot species to study the genetic relationship within the genus Poicephalus and among Poicephalus and the two other main African parrot genera, Agapornis and Psittacus. To this end, DNA from six Poicephalus species, Agapornis roseicollis and Psittacus erithacus was analysed. The resulting dendrogram showed a neat separation of all the Poicephalus from Psittacus-Agapornis. Among the six analysed species of Poicephalus, two larger clusters occurred, one containing four species belonging to meyeri superspecies and the other one containing the two species pertaining to the robustus superspecies. The larger of these is further subdivided in two smaller clusters, each one with two species, that is P. meyeri-P. cryptoxanthus and P. senegalus-P. rufiventris respectively. These results are consistent with the hypothesis that the genus Poicephalus is a natural assemblage that, after undergoing an early separation from Psittacus and Agapornis, was affected by a number of speciation events, possibly during episodes of aridity resulting in fragmentation of forest or savanna habitat.

Key words: Poicephalus, Agapornis, Psittacus, DNA

 

Department of Biology, University of the Azores, 9502 Ponta Delgada Codex, Rua da Mae de Deus 58, Apartado 1422, Azores, Portugal, e-mail fmelo@alf.uac.pt

Medeiros, F.M. 1998. Morphometric comparisons of birds: The use of skeleton characters or of external characters? In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr., Durban. Ostrich 69: 406.

Morphometric comparisons between populations of birds are usually done using skeletal characters because it is generally assumed that these give more accurate results than external characters. The main aim of this study is to show that this assumption is not always correct. If this is the case it is not necessary to kill the birds to assess morphometric differences between different populations of the same species. A total of 472 adult House Sparrows Passer domesticus were collected during 1984 and 1989 in six localities from the Azores islands (35° 55' to 39° 42' N, 25° 00' to 31° 30' W). From eight external characters previously measured (Medeiros, F. 1995. Azores, Bol. Mus. Mun. Funchal, 4: 421 - 431), four were selected to be also measured after skeleton preparation: tarsus length, bill length (the distance between the anterior edge of the nasal opening and the tip of the bill), bill width and skull length. The accuracy of the measurements were tested before doing the statistical analysis of the data. Student t-tests and Mann-Whitney U-tests were computed for each sex to assess differences for each character (external - skeleton). There were no statistically significant differences between external and skeleton characters for the majority comparisons of the tarsus (10) and for skull length. The same is not true for bill length - 2 and bill width. So tarsus length and skull length measured externally can be used to obtain reliable morphometric comparisons between populations of the same species as long as the accuracy of the measurements are tested and the same methods are used. If this procedure is implemented all birds would profit especially the endangered species.

Key words: birds, conservation, speciation, House Sparrow, Passer domesticus

 

Natuurmuseum Rotterdam, P.O. Box 23452, NL-3001 KL, Rotterdam, The Netherlands

Moeliker, C.W. 1998. The rediscovery of Monarcha boanensis: Implications for its taxonomic position. In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr., Durban. Ostrich 69: 406.

For more than 50 years after its description, the Black-chinned Monarch Monarcha boanensis (Van Bemmel, 1939) had only been known from a single adult specimen that was collected in 1918 on Boano Island (off NW-Seram), Moluccas, Indonesia. Consequently, its current population-size, habitat and juvenile plumage were unknown and its taxonomic position within the genus was unclear. We rediscovered the species in 1991 and did additional observations in 1994. The plumage and biometrics of an adult and a juvenile were examined in the hand and field notes on the behaviour of five to 10 territorial adults were taken. In addition, we examined skins of 15 Wallacean and Papuan Monarcha taxa in museum collections. From the field observations we conclude that the bird inhabits a very limited range of dense secondary forest in gorge-like depressions in the mountainous part of Boano Island (total suitable habitat less than 15 km²). The total population size is estimated at a maximum of 100-200 individuals. As for taxonomy, we conclude that M. boanensis is more closely related to the pied species-group, especially M. leucurus, than to the widespread M. trivirgatus. The rather intermediate position of the bird as to plumage and biometry supports its, already widely used, full-species status.

Key words: systematics, taxonomy, species, Indonesia, Monarcha boanensis

 

Department of Zoology, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Qld 4072, Australia, e-mail sdegnan@zoology.uq.edu.au

Moritz, C.C., Degnan, S.M., Clegg, S.M., Owens, I.P.F.& Kikkawa, J. 1998. Modes of evolution in island white-eyes Zosterops. In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr., Durban. Ostrich 69: 407.

Rapid morphological differentiation of land birds on islands provides fertile ground for studies of speciation. The species complex of the widespread Silvereye Zosterops lateralis, comprising nine species and 26 morphological subspecies, includes 18 taxa that have differentiated on islands of the south-west Pacific. Phylogenetic mtDNA analysis suggests island forms represent multiple colonisations of the Pacific from Australian mainland races. Several trends suggest that processes other than random drift play a dominant role in promoting population divergence on islands. First, there is little congruence between neutral molecular and morphological divergence. Second, all phenotypic traits do not change in proportion. Third, there is consistent directional change in traits across several islands. Fourth, there is little evidence for reduced genetic heterozygosity expected from a founder event. Nonetheless, rate tests for selection on morphometric traits indicate drift cannot be excluded as the sole cause of observed change. Interestingly, the greatest extremes in divergence are found among taxa living in sympatry. Together, these results suggest that initial divergence may occur as a result of phenotypic plasticity expressed via genetic drift, and the arrival of a new colonist may later trigger the substantial differentiation to new species status.

Key words: speciation, white-eye, genetics, morphometrics, island bird

 

The Natural History Museum of Zimbabwe, Box 240, Bulawayo, Zimbabwe

Msimanga, A. 1998. The ornithological collection of the Natural History Museum of Zimbabwe. In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr., Durban. Ostrich 69: 407.

The bird collection of the Natural History Museum of Zimbabwe is the largest in Africa and is very comprehensive. It is rated fourth in size after those of the British Museum in Tring, the Museum of Central Africa in Tervuren and the American Museum of Natural History. It is hoped herein to draw the attention of local and international researchers to its importance and potential for research. Specimens have been acquired mainly by way of museum expeditions inside Zimbabwe and in neighboring Botswana and Zambia. A wide range of material was obtained by exchange with regional and international institutions. Road casualties, birds flying into overhead wires and buildings as well as those derived from ecological studies form an important part of the collection which provides over 80% coverage of the Ethiopian region and a considerable range from the zoogeographical regions. The collection comprises over 90 000 skins, 2 000 skeletons, 12 000 egg clutches, 100 nests, 40 type specimens and 42 000 nest record cards. Currently the collection is utilized for scientific research by only a handful of local ornithologists with occasional loan requests from regional and international researches. Clearly the collection is under utilized.

Key words: systematics, taxonomy, biogeography, Africa

 

1Techn. University of Berlin, FG Bionik, Ackerstr.71 (ACK 1), 13355 Berlin, Germany, e-mail vern@fb10.tu-berlin.de; ²University of Tnbingen, Germany

Müller, W. & Weber, E. 1998. Constructional principles of the tongue apparatus and its significance for phylogenetic analyses. In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr., Durban. Ostrich 69: 408.

The tongue apparatus of birds is a complex organ system, the functional morphology of which has been studied comprehensively in but a few species. Consequently, its variation among the different groups is little known and therefore rarely used in phylogenetic analyses. We surveyed most orders of birds using dissection and histological section series. Despite the tremendous differences in diet and feeding mechanisms, the constructional principles of the tongue apparatus as well as its components are astonishingly uniform. However, we found that at least two major constructional transitions have taken place: (1) In paleognaths, the tongue is protracted by a true Musculus geniohyoideus (which was as yet thought to have been lost in all birds), whereas in all neognaths, this muscle is lost and its function taken over by the M. branchiomandibularis (2) In paleognaths and some neognath taxa (Anseriformes, Galliformes, etc.) the M. serpihyoideus acts as an extrinsic tongue muscle, retracting the tongue, but in the other taxa it changes to become a gular muscle, assisting in lifting the floor of the mouth. These results demonstrate that the functional morphology of the tongue apparatus can be used successfully in the phylogenetic analysis of higher taxa of birds

Key words: systematics, morphology, tongue, myology

 

Endangered Wildlife Trust, Johannesburg, 2000, South Africa, e-mail ewtsa@global.co.za

Parker, V. 1998. The Mozambique Bird Atlas Project. In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr., Durban. Ostrich 69: 410.

The Mozambique Bird Atlas Project aims to describe the geographical distribution, seasonal movements and abundance of all bird species which occur in Mozambique, and to identify rare and endangered species. Mozambique was omitted from the Atlas of Southern Africa birds due to civil unrest at the time. This project is an extension of the Southern African Atlas to include Mozambique. It goes further that this atlas in that it incorporates an estimation of the population of each species. The first stage of the project will culminate in the publication of an Atlas of the Birds of Southern Mozambique (south of the Save River) by the end of 1998. Distributions are mapped on a quarter degree grid, as in the southern African Atlas. To date, more than 98% of the 251 grid units have been visited in each of three seasons. Neergard’s Sunbird is shown to have two geographically separated populations. The Oliveheaded Weaver is found to be critically endangered as a result of deforestation. The Chinspot Batis Batis molitor and Mozambique Batises are found to have non-overlapping ranges, the boundaries of which do not correspond with vegetation types. Deforestation, both as a result of slash and burn agriculture and of commercial logging, is highlighted as the major threat to biodiversity in the region.

Key words: Bird Atlas, Mozambique, geographical distribution, deforestation, Africa

 

Pacific Island Ecosystems Research Center, Biological Resources Division, U.S. Geological Survey, P.O. Box 44, Hawaii National Park, HI, USA 96718, e-mail Thane_Pratt@nbs.gov

Pratt, T.K. & Pratt, L.W. 1998. Systematics of owlet-nightjars (Aegothelidae) in New Guinea. In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr., Durban. Ostrich 69: 410.

An ancient family, the owlet-nightjars (Aegothelidae) constitute one of three lineages of night birds, the other two being owls and the remaining Caprimulgiformes. Six of the eight recognised species inhabit New Guinea, including one shared with Australia. We reviewed the systematics of the New Guinea species, all in the genus Aegotheles, by studying plumage and external morphology. We determined that owlet-nightjars can be divided into two groups, one with a distinctive, rufous juvenile plumage unmarked by black vermiculation, and a second group with juveniles resembling the vermiculated adults. The first group includes the species A. crinifrons, insignis, and tatei. Currently a subspecies of insignis, tatei differs by numerous characters and by its riverside vs. montane habitat. In the second group, we discovered that affinis differs from parapatric bennettii in four characters and that geographic variation within wallacii is significant only for increase in size with elevation. We propose elevating A. tatei and A. affinis to species rank. A. tatei, perhaps the most beautiful of owlet-nightjars, is represented in collections by only four specimens and to our knowledge has not been seen in the wild by any living scientist.

Key words: owlet-nightjar, systematics, New Guinea

 

Natural History Museum, University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS 66045-2454, USA, e-mail prum@falcon.cc.ukans.edu

Prum, R.O. 1998. Phylogeny and social behavior evolution of the cotingas (Cotingidae). In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr., Durban. Ostrich 69: 411.

Cotingas (Cotingidae) are a diverse clade of Neotropical suboscines. The cotingas include as broad an array of body sizes, ecologies, and breeding systems as any passerine family. A phylogenetic analysis of cotingas was performed using morphological and DNA sequence data. Morphological characters included hypothesised synapomorphies from syrineal, osteological, and plumage features. DNA sequence data are from the mitochondrial DNA gene cytochrome-b. Cladistic analyses were conducted using PAUP on the morphological, molecular, and combined data sets with manikins (Pipridae) and tyrant flycatchers (Tyrannidae) as outgroups. These analyses support the monophyly of the cotinga clade and a number of robust clades within the family. This resolved phylogenetic hypothesis is used in comparative analyses of the ecological, behavioural, and social diversity in the family. These results indicate that polygyny is primitive to the cotingas, and that bi-parental care has been derived several times independently. The causal association between the secondary derivation of bi-parental care and the evolution of insectivory and montane habitat is suggestive but not statistically significant.

Key words: insectivory, DNA, polygyny, monogamy, evolution

 

Department of Zoology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 3G5, Canada, e-mail rising@zoo.utoronto.ca

Rising, J.D. 1998. Geographic variation in size of Savannah Sparrows Passerculus sandwichensis. In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr., Durban. Ostrich 69: 412.

I studied geographic variation in Savannah Sparrows, a widespread and polytypic species, to quantify trends and to correlate patterns of variation with environmental variables. I measured 24 skeletal variables on 2281 specimens (1459 males) from 65 sites from virtually throughout the range of the species. The species is sexually dimorphic; patterns of variation in both sexes are similar. There are three distinct groups of Savannah Sparrows, "Belding's" sparrows from coastal saltmarshes of California and Baja California, "large-billed" sparrows from coastal saltmarshes of Sonora and Sinaloa, and "typical" sparrows from other parts of their range. Typical Savannah Sparrows from islands are significantly larger than those from adjacent mainland sites; otherwise size variation is slight in these birds and does not follow Bergmann's Rule. Typical Savannah Sparrows tend to be large where precipitation is high and where it is relatively cool. They are relatively small where they co-occur with many different sparrow and sparrow-like species. Savannah Sparrows from the west and high elevations have relatively small bills and large wings. Mexican saltmarsh sparrows differ from others in bill size and shape, and also have smaller pectoral bones. These differences seem to reflect differences in diet and migratory behaviour (the saltmarsh sparrows are relatively sedentary).

Key words: geographic variation, adaptation, Passerculus sandwichensis

 

Department of Vertebrate Zoology and General Ecology, Moscow State University, 119899, Russia, e-mail soloviev@z.vertebra.bio.msu.ru

Soloviev, M.Y. & Pronin, T.A. 1998. Biometrics and primary moult of Dunlin Calidris alpina from Taimyr, Siberia. In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr., Durban. Ostrich 69: 412.

Taxonomic status of Dunlin from central Siberia have been disputed until recently, due mainly to lack of data. We collected data on bill, total head, tarsus and toe lengths, body mass and primary moult from 111 live birds during summer seasons 1994 to 1997 at south eastern Taimyr. Analysis of external measurements gave support to subspecific status of East Siberian Dunlins Calidris alpina centralis, different from a nominate C. alpina alpina. In two phenologically late seasons estimated dates of the start of primary moult were delayed for 10 to 11 days compared to "normal" seasons (P<0.001), but the estimated rate of moult was significantly high in the former (P=0.005), resulting in similar among seasons dates of moult completion at the beginning of August. Moult rate did not differ between sexes (P>0.1), but males started primary moult on average two days earlier than females (P<0.005). The degree of intrapopulation variation in dates of primary moult depending on a season's phenology exceeds those found formerly between some of the Dunlin subspecies also moulting at the breeding grounds. This indicates more control of this phenomena by environmental conditions than previously expected.

Key words: Dunlin, Taimyr, biometrics, primary moult

 

Department of Integrative Biology, University of California, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA, e-mail furcula@socrates.berkeley.edu

Stidham, T.A. 1998. The most diverse Cretaceous avifauna in the world. In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr., Durban. Ostrich 69: 413.

The latest Cretaceous Lance and Hell Creek Formations (Maastrichtian, Lancian North American Land Mammal Age) of Wyoming and Montana record a diverse avifauna of at least 23 species. These deposits contain a diverse vertebrate assemblage of dinosaurs, mammals, and other vertebrates from the western coastal plain of the Cretaceous Western Interior Seaway. So far these formations have revealed two species of derived alvarezsaurids, increasing their known geographic and ecological ranges into the coastal environments of North America. The Enantiornithes are represented by at least two species of avisaurids and one species of Alexornis. There are at least three species of an undescribed group of apparently riverine hesperornithiforms. Neornithines are the most diverse clade with at least one species of galliform, at least three species of anseriforms (Presbyornithidae), numerous charadriiform species, and a few possibly gruiform taxa. Though much of this avifauna became extinct at the end of the Cretaceous, these fossils show that by the close of the Cretaceous a unique and complex avifauna had evolved with both typical Mesozoic taxa and elements of Tertiary avifaunas, showing that the neornithine and neognathe radiation had already begun.

Key words: paleontology, Cretaceous, Enantiornithes, Hesperornithiformes, Neorithes

 

Zoology & Entomology Department, University of Natal, Private Bag X01, Scottsville, Pietermaritzburg, 3209, South Africa, e-mail downs@zoology.unp.ac.za

Symes, C.T., Wirminghaus, J.O., Downs, C.T. & Perrin, M.R. 1998. Taxonomic relationships of races of the Cape Parrot Poicephalus robustus (Gmelin). In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr., Durban. Ostrich 69: 413.

The Family Psittacidae has four genera that occur in Africa. Of these, the genus Poicephalus (Swainson 1837) has nine species and is endemic to the region. Three races of the Cape Parrot Poicephalus robustus are currently recognised. The nominate race P. r. robustus, which is associated with montane forest habitats, is endemic to South Africa and is regarded as vulnerable. Poicephalus r. suahelicus occurs in low-lying woodland in south central Africa. The little-known third race, P. r. fuscicollis historically occurred from Cabinda, Angola through to West Africa but is now only common in Gambia where it occupies a similar habitat to P. r. suahelicus. Validity of these races was examined using morphological and ecological variables. Of the characters used, P. r. suahelicus and P. r. fuscicollis were most similar morphometrically and in plumage colour, even though separated by a distance of several thousand kilometres. The nominate race and P. r. suahelicus showed several significant morphometric and colour differences, even though populations are separated by as little as 30 km in the eastern Transvaal, South Africa. Speciation and distribution of these races is discussed in terms of the forest refugia hypothesis. Validity of these geographic races as separate species is presented.

Key words: Cape Parrot, Poicephalus, speciation, geographic races

 

1Department of Biology, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario K7L 3N6, Canada, e-mail friesenv@biology.queensu.ca; ²Memorial University, St. John's, Newfoundland, Canada

Walsh, H.E., Friesen, V.L. & Jones, I.L. 1998. Molecular investigations into mechanisms of speciation in the auklets (Charadriiformes: Alcidae). In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr., Durban. Ostrich 69: 414.

Despite the central role of speciation in evolution, mechanisms of speciation in vertebrates are unclear. The allopatric model is widely accepted, but does not provide satisfactory mechanisms for many evolutionary phenomena, such as adaptive radiations. Several alternative models, such as paraptric, peripatric and sympatric speciation, have therefore been proposed. In the present study, we apply molecular methods to investigate mechanisms of speciation in the auklets, a group of subarctic seabirds that forage by wing-propelled diving. Four of the five species appear to have diverged within a short period during the late Pliocene or early Pleistocene, and their evolutionary relationships have been unclear. Phylogenetic analyses of over 3000 base pairs of mitochondrial sequence failed to produce a strongly supported, sequentially bifurcating tree. Classical statistical power analysis was adapted to molecular data, and indicated that the species probably diverged within 100000 years of each other; i.e. within a single glacial or interglacial event. This result is inconsistent with classical allopatric models of speciation. To determine if species may have arisen through the founder-effect model of peripatric speciation, geographic variation in the major histocompatibility complex is being assayed to estimate effective population size at speciation.

Key words: seabird, founder effect, major histocompatability complex, mitochondrial DNA, phylogenetics

 

1Avian Demography Unit, University of Cape Town, South Africa; ²Sea Fisheries Research Institute, Cape Town, South Africa; ³Cape Nature Conservation, Stellenbosch, South Africa

Whittington, P.A., Dyer, B.M., Crawford, R.J.M. & Williams, A.J. 1998. Leach's Storm Petrel: A new breeding species for Africa and the Southern Hemisphere. In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr., Durban. Ostrich 69: 414.

Leach's Storm Petrel Oceanodroma leucorhoa has hitherto been considered a non-breeding visitor to the Southern Hemisphere from its North Atlantic and North Pacific breeding grounds. Beachcast specimens have been found in Brazil, Australia, New Zealand and South Africa. Birds occupying potential nest sites have been recorded in South Africa and New Zealand but breeding was not confirmed. In October 1995, a small population of Leach's Storm Petrels was discovered on Dyer Island, South Africa. Their behaviour and occupation of suitable nest sites suggested that they could be breeding. Breeding was confirmed in November 1996, when an adult was found to be incubating an egg. Eighteen other birds were heard calling from potential nest sites on this occasion. Subsequently three nests containing chicks were found. These observations represent the first confirmed breeding of this species off the African continent and in the Southern Hemisphere.

Key words: Leach's Storm Petrel, Oceanodroma leucorhoa, first breeding, Africa, Southern Hemisphere

 

1National Museum of Natural History (MRC 116), Smithsonian Institution, Washington, D.C. 20560, USA, e-mail zusir@nmnh.si.edu; ²Carnegie Museum of Natural History, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA

Zusi, R.L. & Livezey, B.C. 1998. Phylogenetic significance of zygomatic and postorbital processes of Anseriformes and Galliformes. In: Adams, N.J. & Slotow, R.H. (eds) Proc. 22 Int. Ornithol. Congr., Durban. Ostrich 69: 414.

Olson and Feduccia (Olson, S.L. & Feduccia, A. 1980. Smithsonian Contributions to Zoology, number 323. 24 pp.) cited the following cranial characters as opposing a sister relationship between the waterfowl (Anseriformes) and gallinaceous birds (Galliformes): fusion of the postorbital and zygomatic processes at their tips in Galliformes, and lack of a zygomatic process in Anseriformes. However, Dzerzhinsky (Dzerzhinsky, F. Ya. 1982. Zoological Journal, 61(7): 1030-1041; 1995. Courier Forschungsinstitut Senckenberg, 181:325-336.) interpreted the two processes as completely fused in the Anseriformes, forming a unique sphenotemporal process derived from the condition found in Galliformes. We examined skulls and jaw muscles of juvenile and adult specimens to test these opposing hypotheses, and found that: (1) The zygomatic process is small or lacking in adult Galliformes and anhimid Anseriformes, and a vestige probably homologous to the zygomatic process occurs in some anatid Anseriformes. (2) Anseriformes have an unossified aponeurosis homologous to the ossified one in Galliformes attaching on the postorbital process. (3) The temporal fossa is reduced in Galliformes and absent in Anseriformes. (4) Jaw muscles of Anseriformes have been misidentified frequently because of confusion about processes and fossae. These interpretations suggest that the unique cranial osteology and associated musculature of Anseriformes are most parsimoniously derived from those of Galliformes.

Key words: phylogeny, Anseriformes, Galliformes, skull, jaw muscles