Animal cytogenetics

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One major challenge in providing an overview of amphibian cytogenetics is selecting an appropriate taxonomy, as significant changes occur rapidly and vary in acceptance. Comparing Dowling & Duellman's 1974 reappraisal of Anura with Frost's 1985 version reveals considerable flexibility at familial and sub-familial levels, alongside major discrepancies in taxonomic affiliations. Geographic criteria have strongly influenced much of the variation in higher taxonomic nomenclature. For instance, Savage (1973) proposed that Australian hylid frogs be classified under a separate family, Pelodryadidae, based on geographic grounds, a classification that has not achieved universal acceptance, though Frost (1985) granted them subfamilial status. Similarly, Dowling & Duellman (1974) argued for the familial status of the North American frog Ascaphus truei, placing it in the monotypic family Ascaphidae, while Frost (1985) included it with three endemic New Zealand species in the Leiopelmatidae, a decision difficult to justify geographically. In other cases, groups like Arthroleptidae and Hemisiidae have been elevated to familial status due to their unique morphological characteristics. Such reclassifications stem from increased taxonomic input, allowing for a broader understanding of variation within higher taxa. For example, the African Hyperoliidae expanded from 14 genera and 63 species in 1974 to 14 genera and 219 species by 1985, while th