Which subfamily is placed at the base of the molecular Lycosidae tree, suggesting the most ancient lineage examined?
Answer
Zoicinae.
Molecular analyses utilizing mitogenomic data from numerous species have been instrumental in establishing a revised backbone phylogeny for the ten recognized subfamilies of Lycosidae. This genetic scaffolding clearly delineates basal relationships. The analysis places the Zoicinae subfamily, which encompasses genera such as *Pirata* and *Piratula*, at the very base of the proposed family tree. This positioning indicates that the Zoicinae lineage represents the most ancient evolutionary branch that has been successfully sampled and examined through these modern genetic sequencing methods, serving as the ancestral outgroup relative to the subsequent splits within the family.
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