An estimation of Erinaceidae phylogeny: a combined analysis approach.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Erinaceidae is a family of small mammals that include the spiny hedgehogs (Erinaceinae) and the silky-furred moonrats and gymnures (Galericinae). These animals are widely distributed across Eurasia and Africa, from the tundra to the tropics and the deserts to damp forests. The importance of these animals lies in the fact that they are the oldest known living placental mammals, which are well represented in the fossil record, a rarity fact given their size and vulnerability to destruction during fossilization. Although the Family has been well studied, their phylogenetic relationships remain controversial. To test previous phylogenetic hypotheses, we combined molecular and morphological data sets, including representatives of all the genera.

Methodology and principal f

SUBMITTER: He K 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3380021 | biostudies-literature | 2012

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature