Whole-genome analyses resolve early branches in the tree of life of modern birds

To better determine the history of modern birds, we performed a genome-scale phylogenetic analysis of 48 species representing all orders of Neoaves using phylogenomic methods created to handle genome-scale data. We recovered a highly resolved tree that confirms previously controversial sister or close relationships. We identified the first divergence in Neoaves, two groups we named Passerea and Columbea, representing independent lineages of diverse and convergently evolved land and water bird species. Among Passerea, we infer the common ancestor of core landbirds to have been an apex predator and confirm independent gains of vocal learning. Among Columbea, we identify pigeons and flamingoes as belonging to…

• NS
  National Science Foundation

  Awards: 1062335, 0733029
• HH
  Howard Hughes Medical Institute
• NR
  National Research Foundation
• DG
  Danmarks Grundforskningsfond

  Award: DNRF94
• L
  Lundbeckfonden

  Award: R52-A5062
• HL
  H. Lundbeck A/S
• NI
  National Institutes of Health