Molecular relationships of the cuscuses, brushtail and scaly-tailed possums (Phalangerinae)

Abstract

DNA sequence data (1040 base pairs) from the mitochondrial nicotinamide dehydrogenase subunit 2 gene (ND2) was used to elucidate species relationships within the Phalangerinae (cuscuses, brushtail and scaly-tailed possums). Phylogenetic analyses revealed three lineages within this family (Spilocuscus, Phalanger and Trichosurus-Wyulda), which is congruent with the results of other molecular studies. Sequence data also demonstrate that P. orientalis, P. carmelitae, P. vestitus, and P. sericeus are closely related and indicates that P. gymnotis is the sister lineage to the genus Phalanger. Divergence time estimates indicate that the radiation of Phalanger and Spilocuscus occurred during the middle Miocene to Pliocene periods.