Non-molecular support for the recognition of Cryptomicroeca (Aves: Petroicidae) separate from Eopsaltria and Microeca

Abstract

The Yellow-bellied Flyrobin Cryptomicroeca flaviventris, formerly Yellow-bellied Robin, is a member of the Australo- Papuan robins (Petroicidae) and the only representative occurring in New Caledonia. Since its description in 1860 until quite recently, it was placed in the genus of yellow robins Eopsaltria (E. flaviventris). Molecular studies have shown that it is not part of the Eopsaltriinae, but is related instead to flycatchers of the Microecinae. This species was initially transferred to the genus Microeca, but subsequently found to be sufficiently distinct to merit its own genus, Cryptomicroeca. Although molecular data demonstrate its distinctness, this taxon also has several non-molecular characters that support its exclusion from Eopsaltria and its placement with, but separate from, Microeca and other members of the Microecinae. These characters, including plumage, morphology, eggs, nests, foraging behaviour and vocalisations, are discussed.