Introduction: Urbanization is a global phenomenon that is encroaching on natural habitats and dec... more Introduction: Urbanization is a global phenomenon that is encroaching on natural habitats and decreasing biodiversity, although it is creating new habitats for some species. The Eurasian kestrel (Falco tinnunculus) is frequently associated with urbanized landscapes but it is unclear what lies behind the high densities of kestrels in the urban environment. Results: Occupied nest sites in the city of Vienna, Austria were investigated along a gradient of urbanization (percentage of land covered by buildings or used by traffic). Field surveys determined the abundance of potential prey (birds and rodents) and the results were compared to the birds' diets. A number of breeding parameters were recorded over the course of three years. The majority of kestrels breed in semi-natural cavities in historic buildings. Nearest neighbour distances (NND) were smallest and reproductive success lowest in the city centre. Abundance of potential prey was not found to relate to the degree of urbanization but there was a significant shift in the birds' diets from a heavy reliance on rodents in the outskirts of the city to feeding more on small birds in the centre. The use of urban habitats was associated with higher nest failure, partly associated with predation and nest desertion, and with significantly lower hatching rates and smaller fledged broods.
Intensive inventory work on the Mt. Kitanglad massif of north-central Mindanao, Bukidnon Province... more Intensive inventory work on the Mt. Kitanglad massif of north-central Mindanao, Bukidnon Province, Repubhc of the PhiHppines, revealed a diverse avifauna. In all, 198 bird species were detected, of which about 172 were likely breeding in the area, placing the mountain among the most diverse sites that have been surveyed in the country. Three migratory species (Luscinia calliope, Turdus cbrysolaus, and Motacilla alba) were detected on the island for the first time by contributors to this summary, and known ranges of several species were extended. The massif holds populations of at least 17 of the 18 species narrowly endemic to Mindanao-more than any other site yet studied -as well as almost half the species endemic to the entire Philippine archipelago. Endemic species are concentrated at higher elevations, whereas migrants and widespread species are more frequent in the lowlands. The Kitanglad massif, however, has been modified severely below about 1200 m, with removal of almost all lowland forest habitats. Records and data accumulated by historical collectors, recent collectors, and recent observers are compared and contrasted to reflect on the biases, strengths, and omissions in each. The importance of the Kitanglad region to effective conservation of biodiversity in the southern Philippines is particularly emphasized.
Intensive inventory work on the Mt. Kitanglad massif of north-central Mindanao, Bukidnon Province... more Intensive inventory work on the Mt. Kitanglad massif of north-central Mindanao, Bukidnon Province, Republic of the Philippines, revealed a diverse avifauna. In all, 198 bird species were detected, of which about 172 were likely breeding in the area, placing the mountain among the most diverse sites that have been surveyed in the country. Three migratory species (Luscinia calliope, Turdus chrysolaus, and Motacilla alba) were detected on the island for the first time by contributors to this summary, and known ranges of several species were extended. The massif holds populations of at least 17 of the 18 species narrowly endemic to Mindanao-more than any other site yet studied-as well as almost half the species endemic to the entire Philippine archipelago. Endemic species are concentrated at higher elevations, whereas migrants and widespread species are more frequent in the lowlands. The Kitanglad massif, however, has been modified severely below about 1200 m, with removal of almost all lowland forest habitats. Records and data accumulated by historical collectors, recent collectors, and recent observers are compared and contrasted to reflect on the biases, strengths, and omissions in each. The importance of the Kitanglad region to effective conservation of biodiversity in the southern Philippines is particularly emphasized.
phylogenetic investigation of Old World buzzards of the buteovulpinus complex and related taxa us... more phylogenetic investigation of Old World buzzards of the buteovulpinus complex and related taxa using morphological and genetic markers is presented. The morphometric analysis proved useful to discriminate taxa. Nevertheless, phylogenetic relationships cannot be resolved with these characters. Sequence comparisons between the control region and the pseudo-control region revealed that the latter is the most variable section of the mitochondrial genome. Consequently it was used as a marker sequence. In the genetic analysis, almost no sequence variability was found among taxa comprising the buteovulpinus complex as well as Buteo rufinus and Buteo oreophilus , suggesting gene flow and/or incomplete lineage sorting. Thus, rapid morphological differentiation in adaptation to different environments was not accompanied by genetic differentiation of the mitochondrial genomes of these taxa. In contrast, the East Palearctic taxa are well differentiated genetically. The 'superspecies' concept and taxonomic consequences of our results are discussed.
Buteonine hawks represent one of the most diverse groups in the Accipitridae, with 58 species dis... more Buteonine hawks represent one of the most diverse groups in the Accipitridae, with 58 species distributed in a variety of habitats on almost all continents. Variations in migratory behavior, remarkable dispersal capability, and unusual diversity in Central and South America make buteonine hawks an excellent model for studies in avian evolution. To evaluate the history of their global radiation, we used an integrative approach that coupled estimation of the phylogeny using a large sequence database (based on 6411 bp of mitochondrial markers and one nuclear intron from 54 species), divergence time estimates, and ancestral state reconstructions. Our findings suggest that Neotropical buteonines resulted from a long evolutionary process that began in the Miocene and extended to the Pleistocene. Colonization of the Nearctic, and eventually the Old World, occurred from South America, promoted by the evolution of seasonal movements and development of land bridges. Migratory behavior evolved several times and may have contributed not only to colonization of the Holarctic, but also derivation of insular species. In the Neotropics, diversification of the buteonines included four disjunction events across the Andes. Adaptation of monophyletic taxa to wet environments occurred more than once, and some relationships indicate an evolutionary connection among mangroves, coastal and várzea environments. On the other hand, groups occupying the same biome, forest, or open vegetation habitats are not monophyletic. Refuges or sea-level changes or a combination of both was responsible for recent speciation in Amazonian taxa. In view of the lack of concordance between phylogeny and classification, we propose numerous taxonomic changes.
Intraspecific genetic diversity and phylogeography of Corvus corone was investigated using the mi... more Intraspecific genetic diversity and phylogeography of Corvus corone was investigated using the mitochondrial (mt) control region as a molecular marker. A split into two distinct mt lineages was observed. One represents individuals from a wide geographic range spanning from England to the Russian Far East (Kamchatka), while the other one was found in the Primorye and Khabarovsk regions (southern parts of Russian Far East) as well as Japan. For comparison, we investigated several widespread Palearctic corvid taxa with respect to their phylogeographic patterns. A deep split into two lineages was revealed in five cases: Besides C. corone, within Corvus frugilegus, Pica pica, and between the species pairs Corvus monedula-Corvus dauuricus and Cyanopica cyanus-Cyanopica cooki. Although these taxa display a variety of distribution patterns, from disjunct, para/allopatric to continuous, the genetic pattern and level of divergence between clades is very similar. This implies that the differentiation started in about the same time range. In contrast, no differentiation into highly divergent lineages was detected in Corvus corax, Perisoreus infaustus, and Nucifraga caryocatactes. We try to explain the two phylogeographic patterns in corvid birds with ecological factors accompanying the changing climatic conditions during the Pleistocene. The deep genetic splits within several widely distributed Palearctic corvids are discussed with respect to taxonomic questions.
DNA sequences of the mitochondrial nd6 gene and the non-repetitive part of the pseudo-control reg... more DNA sequences of the mitochondrial nd6 gene and the non-repetitive part of the pseudo-control region (WCR) were isolated from 101 individuals to analyze the phylogenetic relationships among all buzzards of the genus Buteo and other buteonine genera. Comparisons of the two marker sequences indicate that the WCR evolved two times faster than the nd6 gene. The WCR proved to be an efficient, neutral genetic marker sequence for phylogenetic analyses at the intrageneric level, especially suitable for analyses based on old tissues, where only short fragments can be obtained. The molecular data set implies a neotropical origin of the genus Buteo.
Microsatellite as well as sequence analysis of the mitochondrial control region were applied to i... more Microsatellite as well as sequence analysis of the mitochondrial control region were applied to infer phylogeography and population genetic structure of the saker falcon ( Falco cherrug ). Furthermore, we compared the patterns of mitochondrial haplotypes with the variation of microsatellite alleles among the species of the hierofalcon complex ( F. cherrug , Falco rusticolus , Falco biarmicus , Falco jugger ) to test hypotheses on population history. Historical samples from museum specimens of F. cherrug were analysed together with samples from contemporary populations to investigate possible influences of hybrid falcons escaped from falconry on the genetic composition. In the mitochondrial DNA analysis, none of the four species represents a monophyletic group. Moreover, there are no clearly defined groups of haplotypes corresponding to taxonomic entities. In the microsatellite analysis most of the variation is shared between species and no clear differentiation by private alleles is found. Yet, with a Bayesian clustering method based on allele frequencies, a differentiation of F. cherrug , F. rusticolus and two geographic groups of F. biarmicus was detected. Results from both nuclear and mitochondrial markers are compatible with the previously postulated 'Out of Africa' hypothesis assuming an African origin of the hierofalcons. From an ancestral African population, F. cherrug , F. rusticolus and F. jugger split off in separate waves of immigration into Eurasia and South Asia. A combination of evolutionary processes, including incomplete lineage sorting as well as hybridization, may be responsible for the currently observed genetic patterns in hierofalcons.
The complete sequence of the mitochondrial (mt) genome of Buteo buteo was determined. Its gene co... more The complete sequence of the mitochondrial (mt) genome of Buteo buteo was determined. Its gene content and nucleotide composition are typical for avian genomes. Due to expanded noncoding sequences, Buteo possesses the longest mt genome sequenced so far (18,674 bp). The gene order comprising the control region and neighboring genes is identical to that of Falco peregrinus, suggesting that the corresponding rearrangement occurred before the falconid/accipitrid split. Phylogenetic analyses performed with the mt sequence of Buteo and nine other mt genomes suggest that for investigations at higher taxonomic levels (e.g., avian orders), concatenated rRNA and tRNA gene sequences are more informative than protein gene sequences with respect to resolution and bootstrap support. Phylogenetic analyses indicate an early split between Accipitridae and Falconidae, which, according to molecular dating of other avian divergence times, can be assumed to have taken place in the late Cretaceous 65-83 MYA.
ABSTRACT The urban space is a permanently changing ecosystem, suffering from decreasing biodivers... more ABSTRACT The urban space is a permanently changing ecosystem, suffering from decreasing biodiversity, but also providing new anthropogenic habitats for some adaptable species. The Eurasian kestrel (Falco tinnunculus) is such an adaptable species, whose dense urban populations are ethologically different from rural populations in Europe. Several studies have indicated that urban kestrels increasingly prey on birds; this study even indicated avian prey as the main prey category in the inner-city habitat. We analyzed the selection of habitat and building structure parameters while controlling for differences in their availability in Vienna, Austria, a city of 1.7 million inhabitants. We then connected the nest-site selection of urban kestrels to their diet choice and annual reproduction rate. Our results indicated a trade-off between higher nest-site availability in the center and longer distances to larger open green space as optimal foraging ground. Between 2010 and 2012, a preference for breeding in close vicinity to green backyards was linked to earlier clutch dates, higher hatching rates and larger fledged brood sizes, but the overall productivity per nest still remained low in the center compared to the suburban area. In a survey of avian prey species, we found comparable abundances of prey-sized bird species in green backyards, parks and surrounding suburban areas. We thus hypothesize that kestrels use the immediate nest-surroundings to hunt, but are not as efficient in hunting avian prey as they are in hunting voles. Changes in modern city architecture and renovation of historical buildings pose conservation related threats to urban predators and prey.
Journal of Zoological Systematics and Evolutionary Research, 2004
A partial sequence of the cytb gene (382 bp) was amplified and sequenced from 35 individuals (mai... more A partial sequence of the cytb gene (382 bp) was amplified and sequenced from 35 individuals (mainly museum specimens) of the genus Pernis representing all valid taxa (10) and two taxa (P. p. gurneyi, P. p. japonicus) with questionable validity as well as representatives of the Old World Perninae, namely Henicopernis and Aviceda, to assess their relationships to the genus Pernis. Furthermore, Gypaetus barbatus, Neophron percnopterus, and Buteo buteo were included as outgroup taxa. In the trees derived from the sequence data, Aviceda represents the sister group of the genus Pernis. The genus Henicopernis and the Old World vultures Gypaetus andNeophron appear rather distantly related to Pernis. Within the genus Pernis, two of the described species (Pernis apivorus, Pernis ptilorhyncus) form monophyletic groups, whereas the relationships of the two clades representing three subspecies of Pernis celebensis are still uncertain. Although this study is based on comparatively short DNA-sections, the trees deduced from these sequences can be considered as a first approach for inferring the phylogenetic relationships of the genus Pernis and related genera and for addressing questions concerning the evolutionary history, biogeography, and systematics of this group.
Journal of Zoological Systematics and Evolutionary Research, 2009
Sequences of the mitochondrial genome were employed to study the phylogenetic relationships of th... more Sequences of the mitochondrial genome were employed to study the phylogenetic relationships of the Palearctic buzzards (genus Buteo). In a first approach a 2.5 kb PCR fragment comprising the section between ND6 and 12s genes was isolated from Buteo buteo hureo, cloned and sequenced. The gene order corresponds to the novel arrangement described for Folco peregrinrrs by Mindell et al. (1998). The fragment includes a non coding section between the /RNA G '" and /RNAPh' genes consisting of a 338 bp nonrepetitive section followed by a cluster of 23 tandem repeats with a unit length of 48 bp. Since this noncoding section seems to be the remnant of an ancestral duplicated control region, it was named pseudo-control region (YCR). For the phylogenetic investigation a highly variable 205 bp subsection of the YCR was analysed from 31 specimens comprising the species Buteo buteo, Burro rufinus, Buteo oreopllilus, Buteo llemilosius, and Buteo lrigopus. Comparison of the 31 V C R sequences revealed 18 different haplotypes, which can be divided into six distinct groups. The haplotypes of B. liemilosius and B. Iagopus are clearly separated, the same is true for the haplotypes of the subspecies B. b. japonicus. Although the haplotypes of B. rufinus are found in a separate clade (with two clusters), this clade contains also four specimens of B. buteo and B. oreophilus. The remaining cluster contains taxa from the buteo and ~ulpinus groups as well as three specimens of B. o. trizonatus. According to our data the YCR appears as an appropriate marker sequence for differentiation at the species level. Within the B. buteolB. rufinuslB. oreophil~rs complex the status of B. rufinus, and perhaps B. b. joponicus, as a separate species is underlined. In contrast, the species status of B. oreophilus seems debatable. No unambiguous genetic differentiation was found among the subspecies, with the exception of B. b.,jripo~~icus.
Journal of Zoological Systematics and Evolutionary Research, 2007
The phylogenetic relationships within the New and Old World hawk-eagle assemblage (genus Spizaetu... more The phylogenetic relationships within the New and Old World hawk-eagle assemblage (genus Spizaetus; Aves: Accipitridae) were studied using mitochondrial DNA sequences (cytochrome b, control region). Eighty-four specimens representing all Spizaetus species and almost all currently distinguished subspecies as well as 11 other booted and non-booted ÔeagleÕ genera from the Neotropics, Africa, Eurasia, South Asia and Australasia (Oroaetus, Harpia, Morphnus, Lophaetus, Stephanoaetus, Hieraaetus, Aquila, Ictinaetus, Spilornis, Pithecophaga, Harpyopsis) were investigated. Although the basal branching could not be resolved, our investigations clearly indicate that hawk-eagles represent a paraphyletic assemblage and thus their external similarities have to be ascribed to convergent evolution. The New World taxa of Spizaetus cluster together, but the South American species Oroaetus isidori appears embedded within this clade. The taxa from Southeast to East Asia form a clearly separated monophyletic group. It is further divided into two subgroups, which are also characterized by distinct juvenile plumage patterns. Spizaetus africanus, the only African representative of the genus, is found in a mixed cluster consisting of members of the genera Aquila and Hieraaetus. These findings are in accordance with previous studies of other authors based on various molecular markers and different sets of taxa, but disagree with current taxonomy. Therefore, we suggest assigning the species of the genus Spizaetus to three different genera: (1) Spizaetus (including Oroaetus isidori) in Central and South America and (2) Nisaetus for the Southeast to East Asian group. The African taxon (Spizaetus africanus) is discussed to be included into the genus Aquila. Furthermore, we propose to use the former genus name Lophotriorchis Sharpe, 1874, for the monotypic species Hieraaetus kienerii, which has an isolated phylogenetic position.
Page 1. ORIGINAL ARTICLE Hans Winkler Æ Nobuhiko Kotaka Æ Anita Gamauf Franziska Nittinger Æ Elis... more Page 1. ORIGINAL ARTICLE Hans Winkler Æ Nobuhiko Kotaka Æ Anita Gamauf Franziska Nittinger Æ Elisabeth Haring ... Geographic variation within species is marked and sometimes spectacular (eg island forms of the greater flameback Chrysocolpates lucidus; Winkler et al. ...
... Therefore, we suggest a new assignment of the taxa to the following genera: Spizaetus (S. orn... more ... Therefore, we suggest a new assignment of the taxa to the following genera: Spizaetus (S. ornatus), Oroaetus (O. isidori), Ptenura (P. tyrannus) for Central and South America, and Nisaetus (N. nipalensis, alboniger, bartelsi, nanus, lanceo-latus, pinskeri, philippensis and ...
Background: Natural history museums receive a rapidly growing number of requests for tissue sampl... more Background: Natural history museums receive a rapidly growing number of requests for tissue samples from preserved specimens for DNA-based studies. Traditionally, dried vertebrate specimens were treated with arsenic because of its toxicity and insect-repellent effect. Arsenic has negative effects on in vivo DNA repair enzymes and consequently may inhibit PCR performance. In bird collections, foot pad samples are often requested since the feet were not regularly treated with arsenic and because they are assumed to provide substantial amounts of DNA. However, the actual influence of arsenic on DNA analyses has never been tested. Findings: PCR success of both foot pad and body skin samples was significantly lower in arsenic-treated samples. In general, foot pads performed better than body skin samples. Moreover, PCR success depends on collection date in which younger samples yielded better results. While the addition of arsenic solution to the PCR mixture had a clear negative effect on PCR performance after the threshold of 5.4 μg/μl, such high doses of arsenic are highly unlikely to occur in dried zoological specimens. Conclusions: While lower PCR success in older samples might be due to age effects and/or DNA damage through arsenic treatment, our results show no inhibiting effect on DNA polymerase. We assume that DNA degradation proceeds more rapidly in thin tissue layers with low cell numbers that are susceptible to external abiotic influences. In contrast, in thicker parts of a specimen, such as foot pads, the outermost horny skin may act as an additional barrier. Since foot pads often performed better than body skin samples, the intention to preserve morphologically important structures of a specimen still conflicts with the aim to obtain optimal PCR success. Thus, body skin samples from recently collected specimens should be considered as alternative sources of DNA.
Summary Summary Summary Summary Summary A molecular phylogeny of the Spizaetus cirrhatus complex ... more Summary Summary Summary Summary Summary A molecular phylogeny of the Spizaetus cirrhatus complex is presented in this study, based on two sections of the mitochondrial genome: partial sequences of the cytochrome b gene and of the control region (CR). The topologies derived from the two sequences are in agreement. Within S. cirrhatus distances are rather low (0-1.5% in cytochrome b).
The diet of Eurasian kestrels (Falco tinnunculus) was studied along an urban habitat gradient in ... more The diet of Eurasian kestrels (Falco tinnunculus) was studied along an urban habitat gradient in Vienna, Austria, using pellets and prey remains collected during breeding season (2010-2011). In the urban study area of Vienna (243 km2), 103.3-122.2 breeding pairs/100 km² constitute the highest known population density documented in a non-colonial breeding kestrel population. In the urban setting, kestrels preferentially nest in building-cavities (68.5%). There was no difference in proportion of main prey categories (mammals, birds, reptiles and insects) within years but significant differences between three urban zones, defined by increasing soil-sealing from the periphery to the centre. Diet breadth (Levin’s index) was very low in the suburban area compared to inner-city districts. This change in diet diversity was associated with the progressive inclusion of more avian prey and insects towards the centre and an increasing proportion of mammals towards the suburban areas. This indic...
Introduction: Urbanization is a global phenomenon that is encroaching on natural habitats and dec... more Introduction: Urbanization is a global phenomenon that is encroaching on natural habitats and decreasing biodiversity, although it is creating new habitats for some species. The Eurasian kestrel (Falco tinnunculus) is frequently associated with urbanized landscapes but it is unclear what lies behind the high densities of kestrels in the urban environment. Results: Occupied nest sites in the city of Vienna, Austria were investigated along a gradient of urbanization (percentage of land covered by buildings or used by traffic). Field surveys determined the abundance of potential prey (birds and rodents) and the results were compared to the birds' diets. A number of breeding parameters were recorded over the course of three years. The majority of kestrels breed in semi-natural cavities in historic buildings. Nearest neighbour distances (NND) were smallest and reproductive success lowest in the city centre. Abundance of potential prey was not found to relate to the degree of urbanization but there was a significant shift in the birds' diets from a heavy reliance on rodents in the outskirts of the city to feeding more on small birds in the centre. The use of urban habitats was associated with higher nest failure, partly associated with predation and nest desertion, and with significantly lower hatching rates and smaller fledged broods.
Intensive inventory work on the Mt. Kitanglad massif of north-central Mindanao, Bukidnon Province... more Intensive inventory work on the Mt. Kitanglad massif of north-central Mindanao, Bukidnon Province, Repubhc of the PhiHppines, revealed a diverse avifauna. In all, 198 bird species were detected, of which about 172 were likely breeding in the area, placing the mountain among the most diverse sites that have been surveyed in the country. Three migratory species (Luscinia calliope, Turdus cbrysolaus, and Motacilla alba) were detected on the island for the first time by contributors to this summary, and known ranges of several species were extended. The massif holds populations of at least 17 of the 18 species narrowly endemic to Mindanao-more than any other site yet studied -as well as almost half the species endemic to the entire Philippine archipelago. Endemic species are concentrated at higher elevations, whereas migrants and widespread species are more frequent in the lowlands. The Kitanglad massif, however, has been modified severely below about 1200 m, with removal of almost all lowland forest habitats. Records and data accumulated by historical collectors, recent collectors, and recent observers are compared and contrasted to reflect on the biases, strengths, and omissions in each. The importance of the Kitanglad region to effective conservation of biodiversity in the southern Philippines is particularly emphasized.
Intensive inventory work on the Mt. Kitanglad massif of north-central Mindanao, Bukidnon Province... more Intensive inventory work on the Mt. Kitanglad massif of north-central Mindanao, Bukidnon Province, Republic of the Philippines, revealed a diverse avifauna. In all, 198 bird species were detected, of which about 172 were likely breeding in the area, placing the mountain among the most diverse sites that have been surveyed in the country. Three migratory species (Luscinia calliope, Turdus chrysolaus, and Motacilla alba) were detected on the island for the first time by contributors to this summary, and known ranges of several species were extended. The massif holds populations of at least 17 of the 18 species narrowly endemic to Mindanao-more than any other site yet studied-as well as almost half the species endemic to the entire Philippine archipelago. Endemic species are concentrated at higher elevations, whereas migrants and widespread species are more frequent in the lowlands. The Kitanglad massif, however, has been modified severely below about 1200 m, with removal of almost all lowland forest habitats. Records and data accumulated by historical collectors, recent collectors, and recent observers are compared and contrasted to reflect on the biases, strengths, and omissions in each. The importance of the Kitanglad region to effective conservation of biodiversity in the southern Philippines is particularly emphasized.
phylogenetic investigation of Old World buzzards of the buteovulpinus complex and related taxa us... more phylogenetic investigation of Old World buzzards of the buteovulpinus complex and related taxa using morphological and genetic markers is presented. The morphometric analysis proved useful to discriminate taxa. Nevertheless, phylogenetic relationships cannot be resolved with these characters. Sequence comparisons between the control region and the pseudo-control region revealed that the latter is the most variable section of the mitochondrial genome. Consequently it was used as a marker sequence. In the genetic analysis, almost no sequence variability was found among taxa comprising the buteovulpinus complex as well as Buteo rufinus and Buteo oreophilus , suggesting gene flow and/or incomplete lineage sorting. Thus, rapid morphological differentiation in adaptation to different environments was not accompanied by genetic differentiation of the mitochondrial genomes of these taxa. In contrast, the East Palearctic taxa are well differentiated genetically. The 'superspecies' concept and taxonomic consequences of our results are discussed.
Buteonine hawks represent one of the most diverse groups in the Accipitridae, with 58 species dis... more Buteonine hawks represent one of the most diverse groups in the Accipitridae, with 58 species distributed in a variety of habitats on almost all continents. Variations in migratory behavior, remarkable dispersal capability, and unusual diversity in Central and South America make buteonine hawks an excellent model for studies in avian evolution. To evaluate the history of their global radiation, we used an integrative approach that coupled estimation of the phylogeny using a large sequence database (based on 6411 bp of mitochondrial markers and one nuclear intron from 54 species), divergence time estimates, and ancestral state reconstructions. Our findings suggest that Neotropical buteonines resulted from a long evolutionary process that began in the Miocene and extended to the Pleistocene. Colonization of the Nearctic, and eventually the Old World, occurred from South America, promoted by the evolution of seasonal movements and development of land bridges. Migratory behavior evolved several times and may have contributed not only to colonization of the Holarctic, but also derivation of insular species. In the Neotropics, diversification of the buteonines included four disjunction events across the Andes. Adaptation of monophyletic taxa to wet environments occurred more than once, and some relationships indicate an evolutionary connection among mangroves, coastal and várzea environments. On the other hand, groups occupying the same biome, forest, or open vegetation habitats are not monophyletic. Refuges or sea-level changes or a combination of both was responsible for recent speciation in Amazonian taxa. In view of the lack of concordance between phylogeny and classification, we propose numerous taxonomic changes.
Intraspecific genetic diversity and phylogeography of Corvus corone was investigated using the mi... more Intraspecific genetic diversity and phylogeography of Corvus corone was investigated using the mitochondrial (mt) control region as a molecular marker. A split into two distinct mt lineages was observed. One represents individuals from a wide geographic range spanning from England to the Russian Far East (Kamchatka), while the other one was found in the Primorye and Khabarovsk regions (southern parts of Russian Far East) as well as Japan. For comparison, we investigated several widespread Palearctic corvid taxa with respect to their phylogeographic patterns. A deep split into two lineages was revealed in five cases: Besides C. corone, within Corvus frugilegus, Pica pica, and between the species pairs Corvus monedula-Corvus dauuricus and Cyanopica cyanus-Cyanopica cooki. Although these taxa display a variety of distribution patterns, from disjunct, para/allopatric to continuous, the genetic pattern and level of divergence between clades is very similar. This implies that the differentiation started in about the same time range. In contrast, no differentiation into highly divergent lineages was detected in Corvus corax, Perisoreus infaustus, and Nucifraga caryocatactes. We try to explain the two phylogeographic patterns in corvid birds with ecological factors accompanying the changing climatic conditions during the Pleistocene. The deep genetic splits within several widely distributed Palearctic corvids are discussed with respect to taxonomic questions.
DNA sequences of the mitochondrial nd6 gene and the non-repetitive part of the pseudo-control reg... more DNA sequences of the mitochondrial nd6 gene and the non-repetitive part of the pseudo-control region (WCR) were isolated from 101 individuals to analyze the phylogenetic relationships among all buzzards of the genus Buteo and other buteonine genera. Comparisons of the two marker sequences indicate that the WCR evolved two times faster than the nd6 gene. The WCR proved to be an efficient, neutral genetic marker sequence for phylogenetic analyses at the intrageneric level, especially suitable for analyses based on old tissues, where only short fragments can be obtained. The molecular data set implies a neotropical origin of the genus Buteo.
Microsatellite as well as sequence analysis of the mitochondrial control region were applied to i... more Microsatellite as well as sequence analysis of the mitochondrial control region were applied to infer phylogeography and population genetic structure of the saker falcon ( Falco cherrug ). Furthermore, we compared the patterns of mitochondrial haplotypes with the variation of microsatellite alleles among the species of the hierofalcon complex ( F. cherrug , Falco rusticolus , Falco biarmicus , Falco jugger ) to test hypotheses on population history. Historical samples from museum specimens of F. cherrug were analysed together with samples from contemporary populations to investigate possible influences of hybrid falcons escaped from falconry on the genetic composition. In the mitochondrial DNA analysis, none of the four species represents a monophyletic group. Moreover, there are no clearly defined groups of haplotypes corresponding to taxonomic entities. In the microsatellite analysis most of the variation is shared between species and no clear differentiation by private alleles is found. Yet, with a Bayesian clustering method based on allele frequencies, a differentiation of F. cherrug , F. rusticolus and two geographic groups of F. biarmicus was detected. Results from both nuclear and mitochondrial markers are compatible with the previously postulated 'Out of Africa' hypothesis assuming an African origin of the hierofalcons. From an ancestral African population, F. cherrug , F. rusticolus and F. jugger split off in separate waves of immigration into Eurasia and South Asia. A combination of evolutionary processes, including incomplete lineage sorting as well as hybridization, may be responsible for the currently observed genetic patterns in hierofalcons.
The complete sequence of the mitochondrial (mt) genome of Buteo buteo was determined. Its gene co... more The complete sequence of the mitochondrial (mt) genome of Buteo buteo was determined. Its gene content and nucleotide composition are typical for avian genomes. Due to expanded noncoding sequences, Buteo possesses the longest mt genome sequenced so far (18,674 bp). The gene order comprising the control region and neighboring genes is identical to that of Falco peregrinus, suggesting that the corresponding rearrangement occurred before the falconid/accipitrid split. Phylogenetic analyses performed with the mt sequence of Buteo and nine other mt genomes suggest that for investigations at higher taxonomic levels (e.g., avian orders), concatenated rRNA and tRNA gene sequences are more informative than protein gene sequences with respect to resolution and bootstrap support. Phylogenetic analyses indicate an early split between Accipitridae and Falconidae, which, according to molecular dating of other avian divergence times, can be assumed to have taken place in the late Cretaceous 65-83 MYA.
ABSTRACT The urban space is a permanently changing ecosystem, suffering from decreasing biodivers... more ABSTRACT The urban space is a permanently changing ecosystem, suffering from decreasing biodiversity, but also providing new anthropogenic habitats for some adaptable species. The Eurasian kestrel (Falco tinnunculus) is such an adaptable species, whose dense urban populations are ethologically different from rural populations in Europe. Several studies have indicated that urban kestrels increasingly prey on birds; this study even indicated avian prey as the main prey category in the inner-city habitat. We analyzed the selection of habitat and building structure parameters while controlling for differences in their availability in Vienna, Austria, a city of 1.7 million inhabitants. We then connected the nest-site selection of urban kestrels to their diet choice and annual reproduction rate. Our results indicated a trade-off between higher nest-site availability in the center and longer distances to larger open green space as optimal foraging ground. Between 2010 and 2012, a preference for breeding in close vicinity to green backyards was linked to earlier clutch dates, higher hatching rates and larger fledged brood sizes, but the overall productivity per nest still remained low in the center compared to the suburban area. In a survey of avian prey species, we found comparable abundances of prey-sized bird species in green backyards, parks and surrounding suburban areas. We thus hypothesize that kestrels use the immediate nest-surroundings to hunt, but are not as efficient in hunting avian prey as they are in hunting voles. Changes in modern city architecture and renovation of historical buildings pose conservation related threats to urban predators and prey.
Journal of Zoological Systematics and Evolutionary Research, 2004
A partial sequence of the cytb gene (382 bp) was amplified and sequenced from 35 individuals (mai... more A partial sequence of the cytb gene (382 bp) was amplified and sequenced from 35 individuals (mainly museum specimens) of the genus Pernis representing all valid taxa (10) and two taxa (P. p. gurneyi, P. p. japonicus) with questionable validity as well as representatives of the Old World Perninae, namely Henicopernis and Aviceda, to assess their relationships to the genus Pernis. Furthermore, Gypaetus barbatus, Neophron percnopterus, and Buteo buteo were included as outgroup taxa. In the trees derived from the sequence data, Aviceda represents the sister group of the genus Pernis. The genus Henicopernis and the Old World vultures Gypaetus andNeophron appear rather distantly related to Pernis. Within the genus Pernis, two of the described species (Pernis apivorus, Pernis ptilorhyncus) form monophyletic groups, whereas the relationships of the two clades representing three subspecies of Pernis celebensis are still uncertain. Although this study is based on comparatively short DNA-sections, the trees deduced from these sequences can be considered as a first approach for inferring the phylogenetic relationships of the genus Pernis and related genera and for addressing questions concerning the evolutionary history, biogeography, and systematics of this group.
Journal of Zoological Systematics and Evolutionary Research, 2009
Sequences of the mitochondrial genome were employed to study the phylogenetic relationships of th... more Sequences of the mitochondrial genome were employed to study the phylogenetic relationships of the Palearctic buzzards (genus Buteo). In a first approach a 2.5 kb PCR fragment comprising the section between ND6 and 12s genes was isolated from Buteo buteo hureo, cloned and sequenced. The gene order corresponds to the novel arrangement described for Folco peregrinrrs by Mindell et al. (1998). The fragment includes a non coding section between the /RNA G '" and /RNAPh' genes consisting of a 338 bp nonrepetitive section followed by a cluster of 23 tandem repeats with a unit length of 48 bp. Since this noncoding section seems to be the remnant of an ancestral duplicated control region, it was named pseudo-control region (YCR). For the phylogenetic investigation a highly variable 205 bp subsection of the YCR was analysed from 31 specimens comprising the species Buteo buteo, Burro rufinus, Buteo oreopllilus, Buteo llemilosius, and Buteo lrigopus. Comparison of the 31 V C R sequences revealed 18 different haplotypes, which can be divided into six distinct groups. The haplotypes of B. liemilosius and B. Iagopus are clearly separated, the same is true for the haplotypes of the subspecies B. b. japonicus. Although the haplotypes of B. rufinus are found in a separate clade (with two clusters), this clade contains also four specimens of B. buteo and B. oreophilus. The remaining cluster contains taxa from the buteo and ~ulpinus groups as well as three specimens of B. o. trizonatus. According to our data the YCR appears as an appropriate marker sequence for differentiation at the species level. Within the B. buteolB. rufinuslB. oreophil~rs complex the status of B. rufinus, and perhaps B. b. joponicus, as a separate species is underlined. In contrast, the species status of B. oreophilus seems debatable. No unambiguous genetic differentiation was found among the subspecies, with the exception of B. b.,jripo~~icus.
Journal of Zoological Systematics and Evolutionary Research, 2007
The phylogenetic relationships within the New and Old World hawk-eagle assemblage (genus Spizaetu... more The phylogenetic relationships within the New and Old World hawk-eagle assemblage (genus Spizaetus; Aves: Accipitridae) were studied using mitochondrial DNA sequences (cytochrome b, control region). Eighty-four specimens representing all Spizaetus species and almost all currently distinguished subspecies as well as 11 other booted and non-booted ÔeagleÕ genera from the Neotropics, Africa, Eurasia, South Asia and Australasia (Oroaetus, Harpia, Morphnus, Lophaetus, Stephanoaetus, Hieraaetus, Aquila, Ictinaetus, Spilornis, Pithecophaga, Harpyopsis) were investigated. Although the basal branching could not be resolved, our investigations clearly indicate that hawk-eagles represent a paraphyletic assemblage and thus their external similarities have to be ascribed to convergent evolution. The New World taxa of Spizaetus cluster together, but the South American species Oroaetus isidori appears embedded within this clade. The taxa from Southeast to East Asia form a clearly separated monophyletic group. It is further divided into two subgroups, which are also characterized by distinct juvenile plumage patterns. Spizaetus africanus, the only African representative of the genus, is found in a mixed cluster consisting of members of the genera Aquila and Hieraaetus. These findings are in accordance with previous studies of other authors based on various molecular markers and different sets of taxa, but disagree with current taxonomy. Therefore, we suggest assigning the species of the genus Spizaetus to three different genera: (1) Spizaetus (including Oroaetus isidori) in Central and South America and (2) Nisaetus for the Southeast to East Asian group. The African taxon (Spizaetus africanus) is discussed to be included into the genus Aquila. Furthermore, we propose to use the former genus name Lophotriorchis Sharpe, 1874, for the monotypic species Hieraaetus kienerii, which has an isolated phylogenetic position.
Page 1. ORIGINAL ARTICLE Hans Winkler Æ Nobuhiko Kotaka Æ Anita Gamauf Franziska Nittinger Æ Elis... more Page 1. ORIGINAL ARTICLE Hans Winkler Æ Nobuhiko Kotaka Æ Anita Gamauf Franziska Nittinger Æ Elisabeth Haring ... Geographic variation within species is marked and sometimes spectacular (eg island forms of the greater flameback Chrysocolpates lucidus; Winkler et al. ...
... Therefore, we suggest a new assignment of the taxa to the following genera: Spizaetus (S. orn... more ... Therefore, we suggest a new assignment of the taxa to the following genera: Spizaetus (S. ornatus), Oroaetus (O. isidori), Ptenura (P. tyrannus) for Central and South America, and Nisaetus (N. nipalensis, alboniger, bartelsi, nanus, lanceo-latus, pinskeri, philippensis and ...
Background: Natural history museums receive a rapidly growing number of requests for tissue sampl... more Background: Natural history museums receive a rapidly growing number of requests for tissue samples from preserved specimens for DNA-based studies. Traditionally, dried vertebrate specimens were treated with arsenic because of its toxicity and insect-repellent effect. Arsenic has negative effects on in vivo DNA repair enzymes and consequently may inhibit PCR performance. In bird collections, foot pad samples are often requested since the feet were not regularly treated with arsenic and because they are assumed to provide substantial amounts of DNA. However, the actual influence of arsenic on DNA analyses has never been tested. Findings: PCR success of both foot pad and body skin samples was significantly lower in arsenic-treated samples. In general, foot pads performed better than body skin samples. Moreover, PCR success depends on collection date in which younger samples yielded better results. While the addition of arsenic solution to the PCR mixture had a clear negative effect on PCR performance after the threshold of 5.4 μg/μl, such high doses of arsenic are highly unlikely to occur in dried zoological specimens. Conclusions: While lower PCR success in older samples might be due to age effects and/or DNA damage through arsenic treatment, our results show no inhibiting effect on DNA polymerase. We assume that DNA degradation proceeds more rapidly in thin tissue layers with low cell numbers that are susceptible to external abiotic influences. In contrast, in thicker parts of a specimen, such as foot pads, the outermost horny skin may act as an additional barrier. Since foot pads often performed better than body skin samples, the intention to preserve morphologically important structures of a specimen still conflicts with the aim to obtain optimal PCR success. Thus, body skin samples from recently collected specimens should be considered as alternative sources of DNA.
Summary Summary Summary Summary Summary A molecular phylogeny of the Spizaetus cirrhatus complex ... more Summary Summary Summary Summary Summary A molecular phylogeny of the Spizaetus cirrhatus complex is presented in this study, based on two sections of the mitochondrial genome: partial sequences of the cytochrome b gene and of the control region (CR). The topologies derived from the two sequences are in agreement. Within S. cirrhatus distances are rather low (0-1.5% in cytochrome b).
The diet of Eurasian kestrels (Falco tinnunculus) was studied along an urban habitat gradient in ... more The diet of Eurasian kestrels (Falco tinnunculus) was studied along an urban habitat gradient in Vienna, Austria, using pellets and prey remains collected during breeding season (2010-2011). In the urban study area of Vienna (243 km2), 103.3-122.2 breeding pairs/100 km² constitute the highest known population density documented in a non-colonial breeding kestrel population. In the urban setting, kestrels preferentially nest in building-cavities (68.5%). There was no difference in proportion of main prey categories (mammals, birds, reptiles and insects) within years but significant differences between three urban zones, defined by increasing soil-sealing from the periphery to the centre. Diet breadth (Levin’s index) was very low in the suburban area compared to inner-city districts. This change in diet diversity was associated with the progressive inclusion of more avian prey and insects towards the centre and an increasing proportion of mammals towards the suburban areas. This indic...
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