Systematics and phylogeography of the tetras of the Hyphessobrycon pulchripinnis species-complex (Characiformes: Characidae)

Abstract

The present project aims to carry out a taxonomic review and phylogenetic study of the Hyphessobrycon pulchripinnis species-complex, using morphological and molecular data, and, concomitantly, to analyze the evolutionary and biogeographic history of the group through the correlation between intra and interspecific variation, molecular data, and the geomorphological history of its area of occurrence. For this purpose, morphological data from specimens in collection and living specimens (for the documentation of color patterns in life) will be used. Additionally, molecular data obtained from two new generation sequencing methodologies: Ultra-Conserved Elements (UCEs), which will be used in phylogenetic studies, and data from restriction site-associated DNA sequencing (RADseq), which allow the study of single nucleotide polymorphism (SNPs), for population studies. The study has the potential to offer another example of diversification of a clade within the Amazon Basin, as well as understanding better the correlation between diversification in color patterns and molecular evolution, thus contributing to enable better management techniques aiming sustainable use of the species and, mainly, their conservation. (AU)