Cryptic Diversity of the European Blind Mole Rat <i>Nannospalax leucodon</i> Species Complex: Implications for Conservation
Vanja Bugarski-Stanojević | Gorana Stamenković | Vida Jojić | Nada Ćosić | Duško Ćirović | Oliver Stojković | Jelena Veličković | Ivo Savić
We explored the cryptic speciation of the <i>Nannospalax leucodon</i> species complex, characterised by intense karyotype evolution and reduced phenotypic variability that has produced different lineages, out of which 25 are described as chromosomal forms (CFs), so many cryptic species remain unnoticed. Although some of them should be classified as threatened, they lack the official nomenclature necessary to be involved in conservation strategies. Reproductive isolation between seven CFs has previously been demonstrated. To investigate the amount and dynamics of genetic discrepancy that follows chromosomal changes, infer speciation levels, and obtain phylogenetic patterns, we analysed mitochondrial <i>16S rRNA</i> and <i>MT-CYTB</i> nucleotide polymorphism among 17 CFs—the highest number studied so far. Phylogenetic trees delineated 11 CFs as separate clades. Evolutionary divergence values overlapped with acknowledged higher taxonomic categories, or sometimes exceeded them. The fact that CFs with higher 2n are evolutionary older corresponds to the fusion hypothesis of <i>Nannospalax</i> karyotype evolution. To participate in conservation strategies, <i>N. leucodon</i> classification should follow the biological species concept, and proposed cryptic species should be formally named, despite a lack of classical morphometric discrepancy. We draw attention towards the <i>syrmiensis</i> and <i>montanosyrmiensis</i> CFs, estimated to be endangered/critically endangered, and emphasise the need for detailed monitoring and population survey for other cryptic species.
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