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Abstract
The fossil record has been used to support the origin and radiation of modern birds
(Neornithes) in Laurasia after the Cretaceous-Tertiary mass extinction event, whereas
molecular clocks have suggested a Cretaceous origin for most avian orders. These alternative
views of neornithine evolution are examined using an independent set of evidence,
namely phylogenetic relationships and historical biogeography. Pylogenetic relationships
of basal lineages of neornithines, including ratite birds and their allies (Palaleocognathae),
galliforms and anseriforms (Galloanserae), as well as lineages of the more advanced
Neoves (Gruiformes, (Capimulgiformes, Passeriformes and others) demonstrate pervasive
trans-Antarctic distribution patterns. The temporal history of the neornithines can
be inferred from fossil taxa and the ages of vicariance events, and along with their
biogeographical patterns, leads to the conclusion that neornithines arose in Gondwana
prior to the Cretaceous Tertiary extinction event.