| Publication Type: | Journal Article |
| Year of Publication: | 1985 |
| Authors: | J. Hanken |
| Journal: | Science (Washington D C) |
| Volume: | 229 |
| Pagination: | 871-874 |
| Keywords: | development, miniaturization |
| Abstract: | Salamanders of the genus Thorius (Plethodontidae) are among the smallest tetrapods. Hypotheses of limb skeletal evolution in these vertebrates were evaluated on the basis of estimates of natural variation, comparisons of skeletal homology and analysis of molecular phylogeny. Nine carpal arrangements occurs in Thorius, more than in all 12 related genera of typically larger salamanders; 6 of these arrangements are unique. They represent a trend toward a decrease in the number of separate cartilages that is independent of locomotor and ecological specialization. Miniaturization may be an important source of morphological novelty, distinct from local adaptation, in vertebrates. |