Redefinition and Evolutionary Origin of the Australopapuan Hylid Frog Genus Nyctimystes Stejneger.

Abstract

The genus Nyctimystes is a relatively homogenous group characterized here by cranial and post-cranial osteological and myological features, and exhibiting a series of reproductive adaptations to montane conditions. The genus has been redefined on the basis of a suite of 39 characters. Its phylogenetic relationships are with several groups of species in the genus Litoria. It seem likely that the numerous points of morphological and reproductive resemblance to montane species of Litoria reflect a common origin of Nyctimystes and the montane Litoria.