Reconstruction of the evolutionary history and phylogenetic studies of neotropical birds based on molecular markers

Abstract

The neotropics is a mega diverse region. The origin of such richness may be related to the geologic and climatic changes that occurred through time and its conservation depends on combined efforts. Birds comprise one of the most diverse groups of neotropical animals. Their endemism patterns and the association between the systematic and biogeographic relationships are appropriate for historical biogeography studies. Their occurrence in all biomes is also suitable to study the origin of diversity in the neotropics. In the present research project, molecular techniques will be applied in phylogenetic and phylogeographic studies of birds. We will enhance taxa sampling of three groups which we have been studying (parrots, cracids, and toucans) and will include another one (hawks and eagles). We will also start the study of passerines from the Atlantic Forest to understand the biogeography and phylogeography of such taxa. The dates of divergence between lineages will be estimated, taxonomy uncertainties may be resolved, and the level of isolation between populations will be determined. This data will contribute for a better knowledge of the origin, distribution, and maintenance of the biodiversity of the neotropics. (AU)