A phylogeny of the Passerida (Aves: Passeriformes) based on mitochondrial 12S ribosomal RNA gene

Abstract

Background: Passerida is the largest avian radiation within the order Passeriformes. Current understanding of the high-level relationships within Passerida is based on DNA-DNA hybridizations; however, the phylogenetic relationships within this assemblage have been the subject of many debates. Methods: We analyzed the 12S ribosomal RNA gene from 49 species of Passerida, representing 14 currently recognized families, to outline the phylogenetic relationships within this group. Results: Our results identified the monophyly of the three superfamilies in Passerida: Sylvioidea, Muscicapoidea and Passeroidea. However, current delimitation of some species is at variance with our phylogeny estimate. First, the Parus major, which had been placed as a distinct clade sister to Sylvioidea was identified as a member of the super family; second, the genus Regulus was united with the Sturnidae and nested in the Muscicapoidea clade instead of being a clade of Passerida. Conclusion: Our results were consistent with Johansson's study of the three superfamilies except for the allocation of two families, Paridae and Regulidae.