Osteology of gallinaceous birds

Publication Type:

Journal Article

Authors:

Holman, J. Alan

Source:

Quarterly Journal of the Florida Academy of Sciences, Florida Academy of Sciences, Volume 27, Issue 3, p.230-252 (1964)

Call Number:

A64HOL01IDUS

URL:

http://www.biodiversitylibrary.org/item/129619#page/250/mode/1up

Keywords:

Mountain Quail, Oreortyx pictus

Abstract:

On the basis of postcranial osteology the Cracidae (curassows), Megapodiidae (mound-builders), and Opisthocomidae (hoatzins) are much more closely related to each other than to the remaining groups of the Galliformes. These three families are considered to be primitive based on the thesis that the Cracidae comprise the most primitive gallinaceous family. The Opisthocomidae show many skeletal specializations. Among the remaining groups, the families Numididae (guinea- fowls), Meleagrididae (turkeys), and Phasianidae (with subfamilies Tetraoninae, grouse; Phasianinae, pheasants, junglefowls, peacocks, Old World quails; and Odontophorinae, New World quails) are recognized. The Numididae and Meleagrididae retain a few primitive skeletal characters. In general, the Phasianidae are more advanced. The New World qauils (Odontophorinae) are considered to be the phasianid group that has departed most radically from the primitive cracid-like condition.