The importance of the appendicular skeleton for the phylogenetic reconstruction of lamniform sharks (Chondrichthyes: Elasmobranchii)

Author(s)

Da Silva, Joao Paulo Capretz Batista ; Shimada, Kenshu ; Datovo, Alessio

• Document type: Journal article
• Source: Journal of Morphology; v. 284, n. 5, p. 17-pg., 2023-05-01.

Abstract

Lamniform sharks are one of the more conspicuous groups of elasmobranchs, including several emblematic taxa as the white shark. Although their monophyly is well supported, the interrelationships of taxa within Lamniformes remains controversial because of the conflict among various previous molecular-based and morphology-based phylogenetic hypotheses. In this study, we use 31 characters related to the appendicular skeleton of lamniforms and demonstrate their ability to resolve the systematic interrelationships within this shark order. In particular, the new additional skeletal characters resolve all polytomies that were present in previous morphology-based phylogenetic analyses of lamniforms. Our study demonstrates the strength of incorporating new morphological data for phylogenetic reconstructions. (AU)

• 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
• FAPESP's process: 16/19075-9 - Diversity and evolution of Gymnotiformes (Teleostei, Ostariophysi)
• Grantee: Naercio Aquino Menezes
• Support Opportunities: Research Projects - Thematic Grants