Ecological niche divergence between Darevskia rudis and D. bithynica (Lacertidae) in Turkey

Abstract

Darevskia rudis (Bedriaga, 1886) and D. bithynica (Mehely, 1909) are morphologically different species, but they are phylogenetically same species in the D. rudis complex. These species are distributed in northern of Turkey. In the present study, we have evaluated taxonomic status of D. rudis and D. bithynica using ecological niche differentiation. All occurrence data of these species were used to predict and evaluate the suitable areas where they may be expected to be found in Turkey. In order to compare their ecological niches and explain ecological differentiation, niche similarity tests (niche identity and background tests) and point-based analyses were performed. According to results of ecological niche modeling, we found niche differentiation between D. rudis and D bithynica. Ecological niches for the two species differentiated along environmental variables, as precipitation of driest quarter for the two species were most important in determining habitat suitability. This factor is important in niche differentiation between the two species. Finally, our results confirmed the niche differentiation between D. rudis and D. bithynica and added new insights into the taxonomic distinction between D. rudis and D. bithynica that they are two species.