Cryptic multicolored lizards in the Polychrus marmoratus Group (Squamata: Sauria: Polychrotidae) and the status of Leiolepis auduboni Hallowell

Abstract

The Neotropical genus Polychrus contains seven species of arboreal lizards. The type species for the genus is the widespread Polychrus marmoratus. We compared a few populations of P. marmoratus using 16S and COI mitochondrial gene sequences (1,035 bp total) and found several lineages existing under the name Polychrus marmoratus. Working backwards, using morphology we identify Polychrus marmoratus from the Guiana Shield and resurrect the name Leiolepis auduboni Hallowell for the species present in Trinidad, Tobago, and northern Venezuela. The number of species in the genus Polychrus is raised to eight. However, we also discuss evidence for the existence of other cryptic species withi

    Similar works