Psittacidae
Psittacidae·Psittacidae
Psittacidae, commonly known as holotropical parrots, is a family of true parrots encompassing 12 Afrotropical species and 167 Neotropical species. This diverse family includes some of the world's most recognizable birds, such as the iconic grey parrot and the vibrant blue-and-yellow macaw, and is characterized by its presence in tropical and subtropical regions across the globe.
Key Facts
- ›The family Psittacidae comprises 179 species divided into 37 genera.
- ›These parrots are exclusively found in tropical and subtropical zones.
- ›Psittacidae includes species from both the Afrotropical (African) and Neotropical (New World) regions.
- ›Four species within this family have become extinct in historical times.
- ›The family's evolutionary history likely began in the Paleogene period, with lineages diverging millions of years ago.
- ›Iconic species like the grey parrot and various macaws belong to this family.
Holotropical Parrots, True Parrots
Mexico, Central America, South America, Caribbean Islands, Sub-Saharan Africa
Tropical Zones, Subtropical Zones
About Psittacidae
Psittacidae: The Holotropical Parrots
The family Psittacidae, commonly referred to as holotropical parrots, represents one of the three families of true parrots. This extensive group is distinguished by its division into two main subfamilies: the Psittacinae, comprising the 12 species of Afrotropical parrots, and the Arinae, which includes 167 species of New World or Neotropical parrots. Notably, several species within Psittacidae have sadly gone extinct in recent centuries, highlighting the vulnerability of these vibrant birds.
Distribution and Habitat
All parrot species belonging to the Psittacidae family are native to tropical and subtropical regions. Their natural range extends across Mexico, Central and South America, the Caribbean islands, and into sub-Saharan Africa. Historically, a small presence was also noted in the United States, though some of these populations are now extinct or extirpated.
Evolutionary History and Taxonomy
The evolutionary journey of Psittacidae likely began in the early Paleogene period, between 66 and 23 million years ago, after the African and South American continents had separated. Molecular studies have refined the taxonomy of this family, recognizing the close relationship between the Old World Psittacini and New World Arini tribes, which have been elevated to subfamily status. The family, as currently recognized, contains 179 species distributed across 37 genera. This diversity includes well-known genera such as Psittacus (African grey parrots), Ara (macaws), and Amazona (Amazon parrots), alongside numerous others. The family also encompasses four species that have become extinct in recorded history.
Notable Species
Psittacidae is home to some of the most iconic and celebrated bird species globally. Among the Neotropical parrots, the magnificent macaws, such as the blue-and-yellow macaw, are renowned for their vibrant plumage and intelligence. In the Afrotropical group, the African grey parrot (Psittacus erithacus) stands out for its exceptional mimicry abilities and cognitive skills. Other significant genera within the family include Poicephalus, Pyrrhura, and Forpus, each contributing to the rich biodiversity of this parrot family.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
What regions are Psittacidae parrots found in?
Psittacidae parrots are found in tropical and subtropical zones. Their distribution spans Mexico, Central and South America, the Caribbean islands, and sub-Saharan Africa.
How many species are in the Psittacidae family?
The family Psittacidae contains 179 species, which are further divided into 37 genera. This includes species from both the Afrotropical and Neotropical parrot groups.
What are some well-known examples of Psittacidae parrots?
Some of the most iconic birds in the world are represented in this family. Notable examples include the grey parrot from Africa and the blue-and-yellow macaw from the New World.
Has Psittacidae seen any extinctions?
Yes, four species within the Psittacidae family have become extinct in historical times. These include the glaucous macaw, the Carolina parakeet, the Cuban macaw, and the Puerto Rican parakeet.
When did the Psittacidae family likely originate?
The family Psittacidae probably originated early in the Paleogene period, between 66 and 23 million years ago. This was after the separation of western Gondwana into Africa and South America.