A phylogenetic study of the Lutrinae (Carnivora; Mustelidae) using morphological data

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Abstract
The phylogenetic relationship of the 13 extant species of otters were analyzed by canonical variate analysis using mensural data and by Wagner analysis using qualitative characters. The results of the two analyses showed a high degree of concordance. The information of the generalized distance (D) and Wagner trees was combined in an Adams-2 consensus tree. The phylogenetic hypothesis generated deviates from currently accepted classifications chiefly in separating the species of river otters of the genus Lutra, as it is generally conceived, into two groups of genera. One, the New World river otters (Lontra), is a monophyletic group phylogenetically linked to the African and Asian clawless otters (Aonyx and Amblonyx). The other group, their Old World ecological counterparts (Lutra), constitutes a different clade. Enhydra and Pteronura are the most divergent of living otters, the former being closer to the clawless otters and the latter to the smooth-coated otter (Lutrogale), which in turn is phylogenetically close to the Old World river otters (Lutra). Available independent evidence, although incomplete, does not contradict the hypothesis.

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