Evolutionary patterns and processes in the radiation of phyllostomid bats.

ABSTRACT:

Background

The phyllostomid bats present the most extensive ecological and phenotypic radiation known among mammal families. This group is an important model system for studies of cranial ecomorphology and functional optimisation because of the constraints imposed by the requirements of flight. A number of studies supporting phyllostomid adaptation have focused on qualitative descriptions or correlating functional variables and diet, but explicit tests of possible evolutionary mechanisms and scenarios for phenotypic diversification have not been performed. We used a combination of morphometric and comparative methods to test hypotheses regarding the evolutionary processes behind the diversification of phenotype (mandible shape and size) and diet during the phyllostomid radiation.

SUBMITTER: Monteiro LR 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3130678 | biostudies-literature | 2011 May

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature