A new split proposed here, taken from Birdforum:
Kearns, Joseph, White, Austin, Baker, Driskell, Malloy & Omland (in press).
Norfolk Island Robins are a distinct endangered species: ancient DNA unlocks
surprising relationships and phenotypic discordance within the Australo-Pacific
Robins. Conserv Genet. [abstract]
Norfolk Island Robin Petroica [multicolor] multicolor (monotypic)
Pacific Island Robin Petroica [multicolor] pusilla
Quote:
Our analyses also suggest that a case could be made for the description of the
Solomon Islands and Vanuatu/Fiji/Samoa lineages of Pacific Island Robins as
separate species under the same criteria. If so, Petroica pusilla Peale, 1848
has priority for the lineage in Vanuatu, Fiji and Samoa. The Solomon Islands
lineage, however, has three valid and available species-group epithets, each of
which was erected by Mayr (1934). The epithets arepolymorpha Mayr, 1934,
kulumbangrae Mayr, 1934, and septentrionalis Mayr, 1934. Under Article 24.2.1
of the International Code of Zoological Nomenclature (ICZN (International Code
of Zoological Nomenclature) 1999) we as first reviser nominate polymorpha Mayr,
1934, meaning 'many forms', to apply as a species rank epithet for the Solomon
Islands lineage. However, this hypothesis will need to be evaluated more fully
elsewhere using increased sampling of nuclear loci. At the very least, it is
clear from our data that these two lineages should be recognised as distinct
evolutionary significant units (ESUs) (Moritz 1994).
Boles 2007 (HBW 12).
[See also: Scarlet Robin / Pacific Robin.]
Good to see, now for Norfolk Island Whistler
Phil Gregory
ornithological writer/ bird guide/ tour organizer
Field Guides / Sicklebill Safaris / Cassowary House / Cassowary Tours
P.O. Box 387
Kuranda
QLD, 4881
Australia
Phone: +61 (0)7 4093 7318
Fax: +61 (0)7 4093 9855
Email:
Website 1: Http://www.sicklebillsafaris.com
Website 2: Http://www.cassowary-house.com.au
<HR>
<BR> Birding-Aus mailing list
<BR>
<BR> To change settings or unsubscribe visit:
<BR> http://birding-aus.org/mailman/listinfo/birding-aus_birding-aus.org
</HR>
|
