The coracoid bar and its phylogenetic importance for elasmobranchs (Chondrichthyes)

Author(s)

Silva, Joao Paulo Capretz Batista Da ^[1] ; Datovo, Alessio ^[2]

Affiliation

^[1] Univ Fed Paraiba, Dept Sistemat & Ecol, Ctr Ciencias Exatas & Nat, BR-58051900 Joao Pessoa, PB - Brazil

^[2] Univ Sao Paulo, Museu Zool, Lab Ictiol, Ave Nazare 481, BR-04263000 Sao Paulo, SP - Brazil

• Document type: Journal article
• Source: ZOOLOGISCHER ANZEIGER; v. 287, p. 167-177, JUL 2020.
• Web of Science Citations: 1

Abstract

In a seminal study on elasmobranch systematics, Maisey proposed the monophyly of a large lineage of sharks based primarily on the sharing of an orbitostylic jaw suspension. This group was later redefined as the Squalomorphi, which included Squatinidae but not Batoidea. Subsequent morphological analyses, however, rejected Maisey's scheme, which was left aside for nearly two decades until the first molecular phylogenies began to cluster again the orbitostylic sharks into a monophyletic group. In a broad comparative investigation of the anatomy of the appendicular skeleton of cartilaginous fishes, we discovered new evidence supporting the monophyly of squalomorph sharks: the presence of a posterior process at the lateral region of the coracoid bar serving as a origin site for the depressor pectoralis II muscle. This feature would be the first strong morphological evidence in 40 years potentially supporting the monophyly of Squalomorphi. (c) 2020 Elsevier GmbH. All rights reserved. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 16/19075-9 - Diversity and evolution of Gymnotiformes (Teleostei, Ostariophysi)
• Grantee: Naercio Aquino Menezes
• Support Opportunities: Research Projects - Thematic Grants
• FAPESP's process: 12/22692-9 - Analysis of the skeletal pattern of paired fins and their respective GIRDLES in species of Chondrichthyes restricted to international collections
• Grantee: João Paulo Capretz Batista da Silva
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships abroad - Research Internship - Doctorate