Phylogenetic relationship within the Hyperolius viridiflavus complex (Anura: Hyperoliidae), and comments on taxonomic status

Abstract

The taxonomy of the Hyperolius viridiflavus complex, a group of African frogs, has been problematic. Mitochondrial DNA sequence data were used to reconstruct the phylogenetic history of these frogs. The phylogeny showed that subspecies were grouped into clades, within which certain taxa were not supported by fixed characters. We used the phylogenetic species concept to identify the smallest monophyletic clades supported by at least one fixed character, and suggest taxonomic revisions based on our results. We identify ten species within the H. viridiflavus complex.