Sistemática de Iguanodectidae (Teleostei: Characiformes)

Abstract

Iguanodectidae was proposed in 2011 based on molecular characters, and since then, it had no morphological synapomorphies. Thus, for the first time the evolutionary relationships of the family were evaluated based on morphological characters. Therefore, parsimony analysis with implicit weighing was performed, using 119 species (44 of Iguanodectidae) and 329 characters. As a result, Iguanodectidae was obtained as monophyletic and supported by 10 synapomorphies. Within Iguanodectidae, two subfamilies were recognized: Iguanodectinae and Creatochaninae (new subfamily). In Iguanodectinae, the genus Piabucus was recognized as more inclusive and was considered a senior synonym for Iguanodectes. Within Creatochaninae, three genera have been recovered: Bryconops, Creatochanes and a new genus. Then, the taxonomic revision of Creatochaninae was carried out, through 20 meristic characters, 20 morphometric variables and color pattern analyzed in more than 1,000 lots deposited in different museums. The Bryconops genus was the most diverse with 22 species, 11 of which are new to science. Within Creatochanes, at least 14 species were recognized, of which four were new. Finally, the new genus of Iguanodectidae contemplates six species (three new) occurring exclusively in shield rivers. An identification key for the genera of Iguandectidae was developed. In addition, comments on the taxonomic history of the species, as well as the pattern of their distribution were presented.