Using 3D geometric morphometrics to aid taxonomic and ecological understanding of a recent speciation event within a small Australian marsupial (Antechinus: Dasyuridae)

Author:

Viacava Pietro1ORCID,Baker Andrew M23,Blomberg Simone P1,Phillips Matthew J2,Weisbecker Vera4

Affiliation:

1. School of Biological Sciences, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Queensland, Australia

2. School of Biology and Environmental Science, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia

3. Natural Environments Program, Queensland Museum, South Brisbane, Queensland, Australia

4. College of Science and Engineering, Flinders University, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia

Abstract

Abstract Taxonomic distinction of species forms the foundation of biodiversity assessments and conservation priorities. However, traditional morphological and/or genetics-based taxonomic assessments frequently miss the opportunity of elaborating on the ecological and functional context of species diversification. Here, we used 3D geometric morphometrics of the cranium to improve taxonomic differentiation and add ecomorphological characterization of a young cryptic divergence within the carnivorous marsupial genus Antechinus. Specifically, we used 168 museum specimens to characterize the recently proposed clades A. stuartii ‘south’, A. stuartii ‘north’ and A. subtropicus. Beyond slight differences attributable to overall size (and, therefore, not necessarily diagnostic), we also found clear allometry-independent shape variation. This allowed us to define new, easily measured diagnostic traits in the palate, which differentiate the three clades. Contrary to previous suggestions, we found no support for a latitudinal gradient as causing the differentiation between the clades. However, skull shape co-varied with temperature and precipitation seasonality, suggesting that the clades may be adapted to environmental variables that are likely to be impacted by climate change. Our study demonstrates the use of 3D geometric morphometrics to improve taxonomic diagnosis of cryptic mammalian species, while providing perspectives on the adaptive origins and potential future threats of mammalian diversity.

Funder

University of Queensland Research Training Tuition Scholarship

University of Queensland Research Higher Degree Living Stipend Scholarship

Australian Research Council

Future Fellowship

Publisher

Oxford University Press (OUP)

Subject

Animal Science and Zoology,Ecology, Evolution, Behavior and Systematics

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