Abstract
European newts (genus Triturus) are widely studied, but their phylogeny is not yet unambiguously resolved. Fragments of mitochondrial DNA experiencing different rates of evolution (the ATPase and 12S rDNA genes) were sequenced in order to test a phylogenetic hypothesis derived from biochemical and behavioural data. Well supported branches of the existing phylogeny also gained support in our study. Within the subgenus Palaeotriton (the group of small-bodied newts) the monophyletic origin of the hypothesized T. boscai - T. italicus clade remained ambiguous, whereas strong support was gained for the sister-taxon relationship of T. vulgaris and T. montandoni. The position of T. vittatus within the subgenus Triturus as a sister taxon to the clade of big-bodied newts (T. marmoratus and T. cristatus superspecies) was also supported. However, the phylogenetic position of the medium-sized newt, T. alpestris could not be clarified.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
