THE BIRDS OF AUSTRALIA. 
as of generic value and must be so regarded imtil colour groups are systematically 
utilised as of more value than structural distinctions. 
On accomit of the attenuate central tail-feathers the well-known 
Gouldian Finch has been classed m PoepMla sensu lato, but if colour values 
are of importance as showai above, this must be separated absolutely. The 
coloration is very remarkable and contrasts widely with that of the Poephih 
group. The varied-colom-ed head, neck and throat, the latter being always 
black, suggesting a relationship mth the black-throated Posphila (but then 
there are other black-throated Finches), and the former black, red or golden- 
yellow, the green back, the bluish upper tail-coverts, the blackish tail, the 
mauve chest and the yellow abdomen, present a combination unequalled 
among these Finches. 
The bdl is larger and more conical, sharper pointed than any PoepUla, 
and the tail is practically square, the two central feathers very long and 
attenuated to a hair-like point. The Gouldian Finch was correctly generically 
separated by Reichenbach, but he selected a preoccupied name, so I proposed 
to perpetuate the memory of IMrs. Gould by na min g the genus Gouldceomis. 
The colour group of PoepMla shows three different tail-structures as 
follows: 
PoepMla {acuticauda) Tail wedge-shaped, all feathers pointed, 
central pair very attenuate. 
NeopoepMla {personata) Tail wedge-shaped, no feathers pointed, 
central pair longer but not hair-like. 
Alisteranus {cinctus) Tad square, feathers broader, central ones 
scarcely any longer than others. 
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