Dendropsophus minutus (Anura: Hylidae) of the Guiana Shield: using DNA barcodes to assess identity and diversity

Abstract

Herein we discuss the geographic structure of genetic variation of the widely distributed lesser treefrog (Dendropsophus minutus) from the Guianas in a preliminary examination of the status of Guianan populations referred to this taxon. Current sampling is insufficient to determine the status of all lineages of this complex within South America, but our results do indicate the presence of cryptic species within this relatively small portion of the ‘species’ range. Our findings reveal a geographic discontinuity of genetic structure within this region that appears to be correlated with elevation. We also present evidence that supports previous assertions that the conventional DNA barcode locus (COI) is not suitable for amphibians.