Revisiting the systematic position of the enigmatic Nicobar Bulbul (Ixos nicobariensis)

Abstract

The Nicobar Bulbul Ixos nicobariensis is an endemic species found across the central Nicobar Islands whose systematic position has been debated for many decades. Its current placement in the genus Ixos is tentative and is based on morphological similarities and geographical affinities to other members of the genus. We used mitochondrial and nuclear markers to examine its phylogenetic relationship to other members of Ixos and Hypsipetes. Our results indicate that the Nicobar Bulbul is sister to members of the genus Hypsipetes, and not Ixos. We further discuss the origin of this species based on the results of our study.