Phylogenomics of trans-Andean tetras of the genus Hyphessobrycon Durbin 1908 (Stethaprioninae: Characidae) and colonization patterns of Middle America

• DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0279924
• Publication Date: 2023-01-20T18:39:31Z
• Authors: Diego J. Elías; Caleb D. McMahan; Fernando Alda; Carlos García-Alzate; Pamela B. Hart; Prosanta Chakrabarty
• Keywords: Characidae

Hyphessobrycon is one of the most species rich and widely distributed genera in family Characidae, with more than 160 ranging from Veracruz, Mexico to Mar Chiquita Lagoon Buenos Aires, Argentina. The majority diversity shows a cis -Andean distribution; only nine are trans including H . compressus (Meek 1908). It well established that not monophyletic but it has been suggested natural groups can be identified within larger group. In this study, we tested monophyly investigated placement We inferred first phylogenomic hypothesis includes nearly complete taxonomic sampling (eight valid species) using ultraconserved elements (UCEs). analyzed 75% (1682 UCEs), 90% (1258 95% (838 UCEs) data matrices, hypotheses under concatenation coalescent approaches. all cases, recovered inclusive , strong support for three groups, evidence cryptic widespread condotensis used our investigate biogeographic history Middle America. Our ancestral range estimation analysis suggests single event - colonization followed by stepwise Pacific slope northwestern South America (Chocó block) northern (Maya block). work supports recognition as sensu stricto provides an evolutionary template examine morphological characters will allow us better understand