Which families absorbed species removed from the traditional Sylviidae definition?
Answer
Acrocephalidae and Locustellidae
The traditional, historically broad definition of the family Sylviidae proved to be polyphyletic upon genetic examination, meaning it included species that were not closely related. As a result of significant taxonomic reorganization driven by molecular evidence, several groups previously classified under Sylviidae were moved into their own cohesive families. Specifically, the secretive, brown warblers known as Reed Warblers (*Acrocephalus*) were moved into the family Acrocephalidae, and the Marsh Warblers (*Locustella*) were moved into the family Locustellidae. This process resulted in a much smaller, more accurately defined core Sylviidae group.
Related Questions
What causes the superficial resemblance between Parulidae and Sylviidae?Which family formally classifies the New World warblers?What heavily influenced warbler classification before molecular analysis?Which families absorbed species removed from the traditional Sylviidae definition?What specific habitat is the Kirtland’s Warbler (Setophaga kirtlandii) critically dependent upon?Where are the Reed Warblers (Acrocephalus) now classified following taxonomic reorganization?What distinguishes Parulidae nest building behavior from some Old World counterparts?Which group tends to remain in the core, true Sylviidae family after splits?Within which superfamily are the New World warblers (Parulidae) scientifically classified?What behavioral trait can often help focus identification on many Parulidae in North America?