Abstract

DNA sequences from the mitochondrial DNA cytochrome- b gene were used to infer the systematic relationships of 13 species of wood rats (genus Neotoma). Parsimony, likelihood, and neighbor-joining analyses produced similar topologies in most cases and produced six systematic conclusions. First, results of previous studies were supported in the recognition of N. floridana magister as distinct species ( N. magister). Second, evidence was provided for the recognition of cryptic species within N. albigula ( N. albigula and N. leucodon) and N. mexicana ( N. mexicana, N. isthmica, and N. picta). Third, the subgenus Neotoma is composed of four species groups ( floridana, lepida, mexicana, and micropus). Fourth, support was provided for placement of N. stephensi within the lepida species group. Fifth, support was provided for the recognition of Hodomys as a separate genus, sister to Xenomys. Sixth, support for the elevation of the subgenus Teonoma to generic status is discussed.

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