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Origin of Australian butterflies: patterns of diversity and endemism
Presented by: Michael Braby, Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
Abstract: At present, 459 species of butterflies have been recorded from Australia of which 216 (47%) are endemic to the continent. However, the taxonomic inventory is far from complete and, moreover, their origins are not well understood. Until recently, we had little idea of where they came from, how they got to Australia, and how old are they? Recent phylogenetic studies and age estimations of nine largely endemic groups (Euschemoninae, Trapezitinae, Elodinini, Coenonymphina, Pseudalmenini, Jalmenini, Candalidini, Ogyrini, Luciini) have provided new insights into these fundamental questions. In this talk I will explore the distribution, diversity, taxonomy, host associations, phylogenetic relationships, age estimations and origins of these characteristic elements in the Australian fauna.
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Thomas C. Emmel Seminar Series presents: Expanding Horizons in Lepidoptera Research
Continuing from Fall 2020, the McGuire Center is hosting this webinar series as an opportunity for both early career researchers as well as established leaders in the field to present their work. We hope that you will join us to hear about current advances in many diverse fields of Lepidoptera research.