Data from: Evolutionary novelties in cranial kinesis promote the diversification of nesting strategies, foraging behavior and diet during the adaptive radiation of ovenbird-woodcreeper family (Furnariidae)

The evolution of different cranial kinesis types in modern birds has
likely driven some spectacular adaptive radiations. However, in certain
taxonomic groups, the functional role of new kinesis types remains
unclear. This is the case of furnariids, a family of neotropical
passerines known for their stunning nest diversity and ecomorphological
disparity. These birds exhibit two types of kinesis, each showing
different degrees of craniofacial modularity and representing a distinct
regime of evolutionary convergence in both beak and neurocranium.
Nevertheless, the extrinsic factors shaping the traits associated with
kinesis remain unknown. In this study, we assessed correlations between
shape, kinesis type, and six ecological variables, alongside the role of
kinesis in transitions toward domed nests and open habitats. We found that
nest type and diet shaped the evolution of beak and cranial kinesis
traits, while diet, foraging behavior, foraging strata, and primary
habitat structure influenced neurocranium evolution. Specifically, the
emergence of rhynchokinesis predicts the evolution of domed nests and the
colonization of less forested environments. We discuss the role of
modularity in the association between shape and ecology, the evolution of
functional novelties in both kinetic groups, and the hierarchical order of
ecomorphological diversity evolution through stages of the adaptive
radiation.