Taxonomic implications of recent molecular analyses of Spectacled (<i>Symposiachrus trivirgatus</i>) and Spot-winged (<i>S. guttula</i>) Monarchs (Passeriformes: Monarchidae)

Genomic approaches to phylogeography routinely reveal that our estimates of species level diversity within island systems are woefully underappreciated. A recent analysis of population genetics, phylogeography and historical demography of two pied monarchs (Monarchidae), the Spectacled (<i>Symposiachrus trivirgatus</i>) and Spot-winged Monarchs (<i>S. guttula</i>), uncovered unexpected instances of paraphyly and genetic diversity. Here, we discuss the taxonomic implications for these species complexes and recommend recognising three species within what has been considered <i>S. trivirgatu</i>s. We defer the naming of a genetically distinct and admixed population of <i>S. guttula</i> on Gag Island, Indonesia, and, pending further study, we advocate continued recognition of this species as monotypic. This study highlights cryptic diversity in the Indo-Pacific species complex and the need for thoroughly sampled phylogenomic datasets to reconcile taxonomy with the complex evolutionary history of birds in this region.