A remarkable revision of the tree of life for ray-finned fishes, which constitute half of all living vertebrate species and 97% of all living fish, is attracting researchers worldwide. Ichthyologists Thomas Near from Yale University and Christine Thacker from the Los Angeles Natural History Museum have undertaken the first comprehensive synthesis of the classification work for these fishes. Their work spans a broad spectrum of fish species, including those consumed by humans and kept as pets.
Unlike previous phylogenies primarily relying on morphology, Near and Thacker’s research incorporates extensive DNA data, offering a more nuanced understanding of the evolutionary relationships among these aquatic creatures. One notable revelation from their 800-page monograph is the reclassification of the diverse and colorful parrotfish. Contrary to earlier indications of them forming a distinct family, the study places them within the wrasse fish family. Furthermore, it elucidates the development of jaws adapted for scraping algae off reefs in these reef-dwelling parrotfish species.
Released in September, the monograph has already been downloaded nearly 10,000 times, signifying its widespread impact and relevance in the scientific community. To put this into perspective, the American Society of Ichthyologists and Herpetologists, with a membership of around 2400, covers researchers studying amphibians and reptiles as well. The research by Near and Thacker marks a significant stride in the field, providing a comprehensive and modernized framework for understanding the evolutionary relationships of ray-finned fishes.
