Cetartiodactyla: Updating a time-calibrated molecular phylogeny

Cetartiodactyla comprises one of the most diverse mammal radiations. Currently, 23 families, 131 genera and more than 330 species are recognized. Several studies have been trying to resolve its phylogenetic relationships. The most comprehensive dated phylogenetic hypothesis available includes only 55% of the extant species, precluding a clear understanding of ecological and evolutionary patterns in Cetartiodactyla. Here, we gathered all mitochondrial genetic data available in GenBank to build a robust Cetartiodactyla calibrated phylogenetic tree using 21 fossil calibration points. We found mitogenomic data for 225 species and included other 93 species from which there was at least one mitochondrial gene available. Using a Bayesian approach, we generated a dated tree comprising 90% of the extant Cetartiodactyla species (n = 318). The major lineages showed robust support and families divergence times are congruent with the available fossil evidence and with previously published phylogenetic hypotheses. By making available a dated phylogeny with extensively sampled clades, we expect to foster future studies on the origin, tempo and mode of Cetartiodactyla diversification.