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<p>The understanding of the interaction between morphological diversity, phylogenetic history, and biodiversity at various temporal and spatial scales is crucial for conservation of communities and species facing extinction. Batoids (skates and rays) constitute a highly diverse group in morphology and habitat distribution, as evidenced by their long evolutionary history occupying essential ecological roles in their ecosystems. Currently over one-third of batoids are under threat of extinction. In this study, we examine the spatial patterns of morphological disparity, phylogenetic diversity, and beta diversity among batoids within Mexico’s economic exclusive zone (EEZ). Specifically, we evaluate the morphological disparity among species subjected to different extinction threats aiming to identify a possible trend toward homogenization of morphological variation. With this goal, we compiled geographic distribution data for all species reported within the EEZ, along with phylogenetic and morphological information. Our results suggest that species richness positively correlates with morphological disparity metrics (e.g., sum of variances and sum of ranges). This trend is also observed in regions with less species richness, particularly coral reefs. Notably, species in the highest extinction risk present the highest disparity. Overall, our results highlight the importance of assessing morphological traits to unveil hidden patterns of diversity and inform conservation strategies.</p>

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The morphological evolution and phylogenetic diversity of skates and rays along the marine coastline of Mexico are linked to species diversity and extinction threats

  • 期刊论文

  • 出版模式：

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  • 发表日期：

    2025年10月1日

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  • Faviel A. López-Romero,
  • Eduardo Villalobos-Segura,
  • Ernesto Maldonado

摘要

The understanding of the interaction between morphological diversity, phylogenetic history, and biodiversity at various temporal and spatial scales is crucial for conservation of communities and species facing extinction. Batoids (skates and rays) constitute a highly diverse group in morphology and habitat distribution, as evidenced by their long evolutionary history occupying essential ecological roles in their ecosystems. Currently over one-third of batoids are under threat of extinction. In this study, we examine the spatial patterns of morphological disparity, phylogenetic diversity, and beta diversity among batoids within Mexico’s economic exclusive zone (EEZ). Specifically, we evaluate the morphological disparity among species subjected to different extinction threats aiming to identify a possible trend toward homogenization of morphological variation. With this goal, we compiled geographic distribution data for all species reported within the EEZ, along with phylogenetic and morphological information. Our results suggest that species richness positively correlates with morphological disparity metrics (e.g., sum of variances and sum of ranges). This trend is also observed in regions with less species richness, particularly coral reefs. Notably, species in the highest extinction risk present the highest disparity. Overall, our results highlight the importance of assessing morphological traits to unveil hidden patterns of diversity and inform conservation strategies.