A phylogeny of the Passerida (Aves: Passeriformes) based on mitochondrial 12S ribosomal RNA gene

Background Passerida is the largest avian radiation within the order Passeriformes. Current understanding of the high-level relationships within Passerida is based on DNA-DNA hybridizations; however, the phylogenetic relationships within this assemblage have been the subject of many debates.

Methods We analyzed the 12S ribosomal RNA gene from 49 species of Passerida, representing 14 currently recognized families, to outline the phylogenetic relationships within this group.

Results Our results identified the monophyly of the three superfamilies in Passerida: Sylvioidea, Muscicapoidea and Passeroidea. However, current delimitation of some species is at variance with our phylogeny estimate. First, the Parus major, which had been placed as a distinct clade sister to Sylvioidea was identified as a member of the super family; second, the genus Regulus was united with the Sturnidae and nested in the Muscicapoidea clade instead of being a clade of Passerida.

Conclusion Our results were consistent with Johansson's study of the three superfamilies except for the allocation of two families, Paridae and Regulidae.