Pattern and process of diversification in an ecologically diverse epifaunal bivalve group Pterioidea (Pteriomorphia, Bivalvia)

► Three pterioid families were paraphyletic based on molecular data. ► The monophyly of most genera was confirmed. ► The ancestors of pterioid bivalves were epifaunal on rocks. ► Epizoic life on sessile cnidarians had a single origin. ► Diversification of Pteria was facilitated by host diversification.