The role of phylogenetic structure on Canidae lineage distribution and trait variation across the globe

Aim: Understanding the spatial structuring of ecological communities requires us to consider the interplay between evolutionary history and environmental factors. In this study, we investigated the influence of Canidae phylogenetic structure on the distribution and trait patterns of lineages across the planet. Location: Americas, Africa, Eurasia. Time period: 12 million years ago - present. Major taxa studied: Canidae. Methods: Using distribution data and phylogenetic information for 37 Canidae species, we employed phylogenetic fuzzy-weighting to compare assemblages based on their phylogenetic similarity. Results: Our results revealed distinct global patterns of body size, body mass, range size, habitat type, and evolutionary distinctiveness among lineages. We also identified the shared contributions of phylogenetic structure and temperature to trait variation using variance partitioning analysis. The PCPS axes highlighted the influence of phylogenetic relationships on Canidae assemblages, particularly in South America. Main conclusions: Notably, the study challenges the applicability of Bergmann's and Rapoport's rules in explaining canids' sizes and range sizes geographic variation across continents, emphasizing the importance of phylogenetic information. The unique diversification history of Canidae in South America and Africa and their diverse environmental conditions likely contribute to the observed trait patterns that make both continents so distinguished when compared to N. America and Eurasia. Our findings underscore the need to incorporate phylogenetic information in models assessing trait variation across geographic scales for unbiased estimations.