Loriinae
Loriinae·Psittaculidae·Small
Loriinae is a subfamily of psittacine birds, part of the Psittaculidae family, distinguished by its small size and often vibrant plumage. This subfamily encompasses three distinct tribes: the lories and lorikeets (Loriini), the budgerigar (Melopsittacini), and the fig parrots (Cyclopsittini), primarily found in Oceania and the islands of Southeast Asia.
Key Facts
- ›Loriinae is a subfamily within the Psittaculidae family, comprising three tribes: Loriini, Melopsittacini, and Cyclopsittini.
- ›The subfamily members are generally small birds, characterized by their bright colors.
- ›They are native to Oceania and the islands of Southeast Asia.
- ›Key tribes include the diverse lories and lorikeets, the budgerigar, and the fig parrots.
- ›Genetic studies have shown close relationships between lories, the budgerigar, and fig parrots.
- ›The subfamily was first described in 1836 by Prideaux John Selby.
Oceania, Southeast Asia
Bright Colors, Varied
Small Size, Bright Plumage
About Loriinae
The subfamily Loriinae is a significant group of psittacine birds, recognized as one of the six subfamilies that constitute the family Psittaculidae. This subfamily is characterized by its members being small birds, predominantly displaying bright colors, and inhabiting the regions of Oceania and the islands of Southeast Asia.
Taxonomy and Classification
The Loriinae subfamily was formally introduced in 1836 by the English naturalist Prideaux John Selby in his book, "The Natural History of Parrots." Historically, the lories were considered the sole members of this subfamily or were placed in their own family, Loriidae. However, modern classification, supported by genetic studies, places them as a tribe, Loriini, within the broader Loriinae subfamily. These studies have also established close genetic links between the lories, the budgerigar (Melopsittacini), and the fig parrots (Cyclopsittini), which together form the three tribes of Loriinae.
Tribes and Genera
The Loriinae subfamily is structured into three distinct tribes:
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Loriini (Lories and Lorikeets): This is the most diverse tribe, encompassing numerous genera such as Oreopsittacus, Charminetta, Hypocharmosyna, Charmosynopsis, Synorhacma, Charmosyna, Charmosynoides, Vini, Neopsittacus, Lorius, Psitteuteles, Parvipsitta, Pseudeos, Chalcopsitta, Glossoptilus, Glossopsitta, Saudareos, Eos, and Trichoglossus. This tribe includes a wide array of species known for their vibrant colors and often nectarivorous diets.
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Melopsittacini: This tribe contains a single genus, Melopsittacus, and famously includes the budgerigar (Melopsittacus undulatus), also known as the common parakeet or shell parakeet. The budgerigar is one of the most widely recognized and kept pet birds globally.
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Cyclopsittini (Fig Parrots): This tribe consists of the genera Cyclopsitta and Psittaculirostris. The fig parrots are characterized by their diet, which heavily features fruit, particularly figs. Species include the orange-breasted fig parrot and the double-eyed fig parrot.
Together, these tribes represent a significant portion of the parrot diversity found in their native regions, showcasing a range of adaptations and appearances within the Psittaculidae family.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main groups within the Loriinae subfamily?
The Loriinae subfamily is divided into three main tribes: the lories and lorikeets (Loriini), the budgerigar (Melopsittacini), and the fig parrots (Cyclopsittini). These groups represent distinct lineages within the subfamily.
Where are Loriinae birds typically found?
Loriinae birds are predominantly inhabitants of Oceania and the islands of Southeast Asia. This geographic distribution covers a wide range of tropical and subtropical environments.
What is the defining characteristic of Loriinae birds?
Loriinae birds are generally small in size and are known for their predominantly bright and varied plumage colors. This makes them visually striking members of the parrot family.
How are the tribes within Loriinae related?
Genetic studies have revealed that the lories (Loriini) are closely related to the budgerigar (Melopsittacini) and the fig parrots (Cyclopsittini). These studies have helped to consolidate their classification within the Loriinae subfamily.