Reconsidering the type locality of the black-bellied whistling duck (Dendrocygna autumnalis): taxonomic and biogeographic implications
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Abstract
The nomenclatural and taxonomic history of Dendrocygna autumnalis has been marked by persistent uncertainty regarding subspecific limits and the original type locality. This study reassesses historical, morphological, biogeographic, and documentary evidence to evaluate current taxonomic treatments. Review of historical sources indicates that the original description was based on an illustration derived from a live specimen reportedly collected in the West Indies. Comparative analysis of plumage patterns using extensive photographic records from across the species’ range, including citizen science databases, reveals consistent geographic differentiation. Three principal coloration patterns are identified: a northern Central–North American pattern lacking extensive gray on the chest and dorsum; a South American pattern characterized by a broad gray area separating rufous and black regions; and intermediate phenotypes concentrated in Panama, consistent with introgression in a contact zone. Biogeographic evidence from the Caribbean further supports the presence of both principal forms, clarifying historical confusion regarding distribution. The combined evidence supports restoration of the original West Indies type locality, synonymization of fulgens under autumnalis, recognition of discolor for South American populations, and interpretation of Panamanian populations as an active zone of intergradation rather than a distinct taxonomic unit.
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