Speciation and Evolution of the Birds of Paradise (Paradisaeidae)

澳大利亚极乐鸟代表了一种戏剧性的 以进化为特征的物种增殖 壮观的羽毛，行为的差异，特别是 繁殖系统和生态专业化。本研究 该项目将使用现代数值和计算机方法， 重建这个群体的进化史， 形态学、行为学和生态学的进化 历史背景。极乐鸟将作为 理解进化过程的范式， 物种的繁衍。 这项研究将有助于我们对 导致生物进化的自然过程 多样性--特别是鸟类物种的进化。只有 了解这种多样性的起源，我们可以评估其 对我们的全球生态系统的重要性，并采取必要的行动 为了保护它。

The Australian birds of paradise represent a dramatic proliferation of species characterized by the evolution of spectacular plumages, differences in behavior, particularly breeding systems, and ecological specializations. This research project will use modern numerical and computer methods to reconstruct the evolutionary history of the group and then study the evolution of morphology, behavior and ecology against this historical backdrop. The birds of paradise will serve as a paradigm for understanding the evolutionary processes that result in the proliferation of species. This study will contribute to our basic understanding of the natural processes that result in the evolution of biological diversity--particularly the evolution of avian species. Only by understanding the origin of this diversity can we assess its importance to our global ecosystem and take the action necessary for its preservation.