R. T. Brumfield

Testing the mettle of METAL: A comparison of phylogenomic methods using a challenging but well-resolved phylogeny

The paper compares phylogenomic methods using a well-resolved bird species tree, finding that ML concatenation performs best, while METAL shows promise with large datasets.

Geo-genomic predictors of genetree heterogeneity in an Amazonian bird (Thamnophilus aethiops)

The paper uses genomic data to predict biogeographic patterns in an Amazonian bird, finding that chromosome length and genomic processes influence genealogical divergence and introgression.

An island "endemic" born out of hybridization between introduced lineages

The paper uses genomic data and historical records to determine that Cuban bobwhites originated from hybridization between introduced lineages from southern Mexico and the southeastern USA, arriving in Cuba between the 12th and 20th centuries.

Genetic, vocal, and body size divergence across the Northern Peruvian Low supports two species within the Masked Flowerpiercer (Diglossa cyanea)

The paper finds genetic, vocal, and body size divergence between two populations of the Masked Flowerpiercer separated by the Northern Peruvian Low, supporting their classification as separate species.

Historical specimens and the limits of subspecies phylogenomics in the New World quails (Odontophoridae)

This study evaluates the effectiveness of historical specimens in resolving subspecies-level phylogenetic relationships in New World quails using ultraconserved elements, finding that while species-level relationships are well-supported, subspecies-level discordance can be mitigated by analyzing subclades.

River network rearrangements promote speciation in lowland Amazonian birds

This study shows river network rearrangements in the Amazon promote speciation in birds by creating barriers and facilitating hybrid speciation.

Climate, crypsis and Gloger's rule in a large family of tropical passerine birds (Furnariidae)

This study examines the relationship between climate, habitat light environments, and plumage brightness in Furnariidae birds, finding that cooler climates and darker habitats are associated with darker plumage.

Systematics of a radiation of Neotropical suboscines (Aves: Thamnophilidae: Epinecrophylla)

This study uses UCE sequencing to analyze the phylogeny and population genetics of Epinecrophylla antwrens, revealing discordant relationships and suggesting a revised taxonomy.

Systematics, biogeography and diversification of Scytalopus tapaculos (Rhinocryptidae), an enigmatic radiation of Neotropical montane birds

This study investigates the phylogeny, biogeography, and diversification of Scytalopus tapaculos, finding rapid non-adaptive speciation linked to limited dispersal and landscape barriers.

A positive association between population genetic differentiation and speciation rates in New World birds

The paper shows population differentiation rates within species predict speciation rates over long timescales in New World birds.

Habitat preference predicts genetic diversity and population divergence in Amazonian birds

The paper links habitat preference to genetic diversity and population divergence in Amazonian birds, finding upland forest species have higher genetic diversity and deeper gene histories than floodplain species.