Geographical range evolution of the genus Polypedates (Anura: Rhacophoridae) from the Oligocene to present.

ABSTRACT: Currently, the genus Polypedates comprises 26 species distributed in South, Southeast, and East Asia. Because of their relatively low dispersal capability and intolerance to seawater, this genus is ideal for the study of terrestrial range evolution that extends into the island archipelagos of southeastern Asia. In this study, based on data compiled for Polypedatesfrom previous studies and partial mitochondrial and nuclear genes collected in this study, we performed systematic biogeographical analysis. We confirmed a Sundaland origin for the extant genus and showed northward dispersal into mainland Southeast Asia and Asia, which coincided with the timing of paleoclimatic change from the Oligocene to Middle Miocene. Climate fluctuations had a profound impact on species diversif

SUBMITTER: Yuan LM 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC7840456 | biostudies-literature | 2021 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature