and average linkage techniques and the results of inclusion and exclusion of primitive character states, were compared. There are significant differences, and exclusion of primitive character states is recommended. We put most emphasis on a combinatorial analysis of our own, which takes into account the changes in the feeding system as a single complex unit and also makes use of the phenetic methods in which primitive character states are excluded. The result is the placement of the 14 genera in four groups: A. Salamandra, Chioglossa, Salamandrina; B. Triturus, Euproctus, Neurergus, Paramesotriton, Cynops, Hypselotriton, Pachytriton, Taricha, Notophthalmus; C. Pleurodeles; D. Tylototriton. The very primitive groups C and D are slightly modified remnants of ancient groups. Group A is the most derived group. Chioglossa and Salamandrina are the most specialized genera. Of two computer methods for deducing phylogenies, one compares well with these results, but the other does not.