Behavior and phylogenetic relations among artiodactyla families (Artiodactyla, Mammalia)

Abstract

Phylogenetic relationships among five contemporary Artiodactyla families (Suidae, Tragulidae, Moschidae, Bovide, Cervidae) are studied using the cluster analysis of 45 behavioral features in representatives of 51 genera. Representatives of ancient Suidae and Tragulidae groups are shown to contain archaic patterns in their behavioral repertoire and form a common clade within the phylogenetic tree. Bovidae and Cervidae form a monophyletic branch, while Moschidae occupy an external position and, thus, make up a sister group to the previous two. Patterns of cleaning, defensive, feeding, agonistic, sexual, mother-child, and territorial behavior are discussed. Patterns of agonistic behavior that correspond to the certain stages of phylogenetic development in Artiodactyla are found in representatives of all the families depending on their weapons, body size, and complexity of social organization in groups. In Moschidae, patterns are found to be parallel to behavioral repertoires of primitive ruminant animals—Tragulidae. On the basis of the results of this investigation, it is suggested to place Moschidae and Bovidae + Cervidae in the Cervoidea superfamily.