The phylogenetic relationships of the electric catfish family Malapteruridae (Teleostei: Siluroidei)

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Abstract
Among siluroid fishes (catfishes), the Malapteruridae uniquely possess an electrogenic organ. Although much attention has been paid to the anatomy and physiology of the electric organ, little emphasis has been given to other anatomical characters, particularly with regard to their indicating phylogenetic relationships. Ten character complexes involving cranial bones, muscles, swimbladder connections and vertebral column are here analyzed and compared with those of other siluroids. Despite its obvious specializations (autapomorphies) the Malapteruridae is basically a plesiomorphic group and that its relationships lie with some taxa belonging to the Old-World Siluridae. The Siluridae are thus a paraphyletic assemblage, with other included taxa having their close relationships with the Schilbeidae. The evolutionary potential for development of the electric organ is accounted for by the loss of a rigid connection between the pectoral girdle and the skull and the associated modification of anterior body musculature.