1 #ISTC20 #Sesh9 Oystercatchers are a genus of globally distributed #waders with eleven extant species. Their morphologies and ecologies are so similar that their interspecific relationships and evolutionary history have become a web of taxonomic reclassifications. #ornithology

2 #ISTC20 #Sesh9 We compared 8 mitochondrial and 7 nuclear loci across all recognised species. We were able to reconstruct interspecific relationships as well as estimate divergence times using published fossil calibrations. This is the resulting tree! #genetics

3 #ISTC20 #Sesh9 The split between Old World and New World Oystercatchers is surprisingly old, however most of the genetic diversity and speciation is comparatively recent suggesting a rapid radiation and coastal expansion following the later glaciation periods.

4 #ISTC20 #Sesh9 The eastern subspecies Haematopus ostralegus osculans is genetically and evolutionarily distinct from the rest of Eurasian Oystercatchers and should be reclassified as a separate species: the Far Eastern Oystercatcher (H. osculans). #taxonomy

5 #ISTC20 #Sesh9 Future sampling will need to include H. palliatus galapagensis and H. fuliginosus ophthalmicus, so that we can continue to complete the picture. Based on our current study, we recommend the following adjustments to oystercatcher taxonomy.

6 #ISTC20 #Sesh9 Our study answers some long standing questions regarding oystercatcher evolution and taxonomy. This charismatic genus of waders has an ancient evolutionary origin and a dynamic pattern of recent radiations which warrants continued study.