Publication Date:
2012-04-17
Description:
The fire salamander complex is quite diverse in the Iberian Peninsula where nine subspecies of Salamandra salamandra are currently recognized. Here, we analysed the geographical distribution of the subspecies S. s. gallaica and S. s. crespoi using partial sequences of the mitochondrial cytochrome b gene of 168 individuals from 12 locations in Portugal. Our results support the existence of a deep lineage divergence between the two subspecies, with non-overlapping geographical distributions except in two contact zones: one in Sesimbra on the western coast, and another in Alcoutim on the southeastern border with Spain. Moreover, S. s. crespoi displays signs of gene flow among the sampled locations whereas S. s. gallaica shows evidence of some restriction to gene flow. Present-day genetic make-up of S. s. gallaica and S. s. crespoi is a result of past historical events, fine-tuned by contemporary Iberian geoclimate. Humid mountain areas were found to harbour increased genetic diversity possibly acting as past refugia during drier interglacial periods. To analyse wider geographical patterns and lineage splitting events within S. salamandra we performed a Bayesian dating analysis completing our data set with previously published sequences. The observed divergences were associated to successive biogeographic scenarios, and to other Iberian species showing similar trends. Content Type Journal Article Pages 1095-1105 DOI 10.1007/s10709-011-9609-6 Authors Davide M. Reis, Centre for Marine Sciences, CCMAR—CIMAR Laboratório Associado, University of Algarve, Campus de Gambelas, 8005-139 Faro, Portugal Regina L. Cunha, Centre for Marine Sciences, CCMAR—CIMAR Laboratório Associado, University of Algarve, Campus de Gambelas, 8005-139 Faro, Portugal Cláudia Patrão, Centre for Marine Sciences, CCMAR—CIMAR Laboratório Associado, University of Algarve, Campus de Gambelas, 8005-139 Faro, Portugal Rui Rebelo, Centro de Biologia Ambiental e Departamento de Biologia Animal, Faculdade de Ciências da Universidade de Lisboa, Bloco C2, Campo Grande, 1749-016 Lisbon, Portugal Rita Castilho, Centre for Marine Sciences, CCMAR—CIMAR Laboratório Associado, University of Algarve, Campus de Gambelas, 8005-139 Faro, Portugal Journal Genetica Online ISSN 1573-6857 Print ISSN 0016-6707 Journal Volume Volume 139 Journal Issue Volume 139, Number 9
Print ISSN:
0016-6707
Electronic ISSN:
1573-6857
Topics:
Biology
