Bruce M. Beehler

Phylogeny and biogeography of the Ptiloris riflebirds (Aves : Paradisaeidae)

We performed a phylogenetic and biogeographic study of the riflebird genus Ptiloris (Paradisaeidae). Our analysis, which includes sonograms documenting intertaxonomic variation in male advertisement vocalizations and a reassessment of key morphological characters, indicates that (1) the genus includes two distinct clades (P. victoriael paradiseus and the P. magnijicus complex); (2) within the P. magnificus complex, the eastern Papuan form may constitute a heretofore unrecognized sibling species; and (3) the biogeography of Ptiloris provides additional confirming evidence that the Torres Strait has been of minor importance as a biogeographic barrier for Australo-Papuan rainforest birds.

Birds of Paradise : Paradisaeidae

Preface and acknowledgement List of colour plates List of abbreviations Plan of the book Diagrams of bird topography Diagrams of bird of paradise structural morphology Map showing some more important locations mentioned in the text Boundaries of the regional maps used in the species accounts of Chapter 9 Part I 1. The incredible birds of paradise - an introduction 2. Discovery of the birds of paradise and history of their study 3. Evolution and biogeography of the birds of paradise 4. Ecology of the birds of paradise 5. Reproductive behaviour 6. Nesting biology and parental behaviour 7. Birds of paradise in human tradition and culture 8. Conservation Part II Family, subfamily, genus and species accounts Appendices References Index