NEW PROGRESS IN AVIAN MOLECULAR PHYLOGENETICS

Although aves underwent ancient but rapid diversification,previous taxonomic studies based on morphology and fossil records were rather limited,with little known of avian phylogeny.Recent molecular phylogenetic studies revealed only two nodes in the avian tree,consistently supported by both molecular and morphological evidence.The first node divided Paleognathae and Neognathae,the second node split neognaths into Galloanserae and Neoaves.Molecular studies also supported a Cretaceous origin of Neoaves,against a Cenozoic origin based on fossil record.Even in a recent phylogenetic study,higher-order phylogeny of Neoaves remained to be resolved.To complement avian phylogenetics works,molecular evolution and systematic studies should be promoted,and integrated with morphology and paleontological studies.