DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.1293.190114

Authors: Yen-Jean Chen, Yi-Lun Chiang, Meng-Jou Chi, Shih-Wei Chang, Nian-Hong Jang-Liaw

Abstract: DNA barcoding using mitochondrial COI is widely applied for animal species identification, but its accuracy in mammals can be affected by uneven sampling, sequence artefacts, and nuclear mitochondrial pseudogenes (numts). In this study, we established a voucher-linked COI DNA barcode reference library for non-volant terrestrial mammals of Taiwan and evaluated its identification performance and potential limitations using the BOLD workbench, Barcode Index Number (BIN) assignments, barcode gap analyses, and comparisons with public sequence data. A total of 157 newly generated COI sequences were obtained, representing seven orders, 16 families, 37 genera and 48 species. Among the 48 sampled taxa, 15 (31.25%) had no COI barcode record available in BOLD before this study; therefore, the deposition of the present library increasing BOLD coverage for the sampled taxa from 68.8% to 100%. In the original BOLD project dataset, 145 of the 157 sequences were assigned to 49 BINs. To evaluate whether the observed barcode patterns were robust for broader sampling, 75 public Taiwanese mammalian COI sequences were incorporated into an expanded Taiwan dataset of 232 sequences. Barcode-gap and Neighbor-Joining analyses showed that 45 of the 48 taxa retained positive barcode gaps after public sequences were added, supporting the utility of COI barcodes for identifying most non-volant terrestrial mammals in Taiwan. Three taxa, Mogera insularis, M. kanoana, and Petaurista grandis, showed negative barcode gaps and/or split clustering patterns and were therefore highlighted for further investigation. In addition, all three newly generated Rattus tanezumi sequences were flagged as putative numts based on anomalous placement and full-length sequence inspection. Our results further emphasize the importance of integrating specimen traceability, functional sequence checks, comparisons with public data, distance-based analyses, and cautious interpretation of BIN results in mammalian DNA barcoding research.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.1290.186733

Authors: Yang Guo, Kun-hao Chen, Xin-dan Fan, Lin-ying Xue, Hu-hua Yang, Yuan-jie Xiao, Xiao-yun Wang, Yi Wu, Yang Yue, Wen-hua Yu

Abstract: In July 2025, one small vespertilionid bat was collected from a building of Jinguang Temple Provincial Nature Reserve, Dali, Yunnan, China. Based on integrative analyses of morphological and morphometric characters, together with phylogenetic evidence based on the mitochondrial cytochrome b (Cytb) gene, we identified the specimen as Hypsugo petersi. Previously, this species has been documented only in Borneo and the Philippines; therefore its discovery represents the first record of H. petersi in China and the Asian mainland. Furthermore, an identification key to all Chinese Hypsugo species is presented to facilitate accurate species identification and to support future biodiversity surveys and conservation management.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.1288.129555

Authors: Manfredo A. Turcios-Casco, Franklin Castañeda, Don E. Wilson, Bruce Miller, Daniel Gonzalez-Socoloske, Eric A. Ramos, Travis W. King, Richard K. LaVal, Nicté Ordóñez-Garza, Danny Ordoñez, Gustavo Graciolli, Daniel Thornton, Marcio Martínez, Nereyda M. Estrada-Andino, Hefer D. Ávila-Palma

Abstract: Our account of the mammals of Honduras presents distribution based on verifiable data, with notes on natural history, ecology, and conservation. Notable additions include information from a recent checklist of bat ectoparasites for Honduras and basic acoustic descriptions of vocal signatures for some bat species. A total of 227 extant native mammalian species within 146 genera and 42 families, including three introduced rodent species, are verified to occur in Honduras. We anticipate that an additional 28 species could eventually be verified in Honduras, bringing the total to 255. A discussion of the importance of additional studies and the conservation of Honduran mammals is included. In closing, we discuss why some questionable records have persisted over time, with local and regional extinctions, and new threats. We hope this review will serve as a new baseline for the next generation to continue to study mammals systematically in the country.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.1286.186604

Authors: Cibele R. Bonvicino, Maria Julia Cardoso, Filipe Souza-Gudinho

Abstract: Bassaricyon (Carnivora, Procyonidae) is a little-known group of small Neotropical carnivores from central and northern South America. Despite their charismatic nature, they are difficult to spot in the field, and they are confused with another procyonid, the kinkajou. This poorly studied genus comprises four species: B. gabbii, B. alleni, B. medius, and B. neblina, the latter with two subspecies. In this study, the genetic diversity of Bassaricyon from eastern Amazonia was explored based on the mitochondrial gene cytochrome b. A maximum-likelihood analysis confirms the taxa recognized at the species and subspecies levels and shows that populations from the Guiana Shield (GS) are well structured relative to the lineage from western Amazonia (WA), with genetic distances among them comparable to those of other Bassaricyon subspecies. A median-joining network showed five median vectors between B. alleni lineages, more than between B. medius and B. neblina subspecies (n = 1); additionally, there are at least 10 nucleotide substitutions between them, suggesting a considerable difference between these lineages. In the last review of the genus, the estimated divergence time between B. alleni from western Amazonia and Guiana Shield was slightly less than that between B. neblina and B. medius subspecies, suggesting less time to differentiate. We collected Potos flavus in the two municipalities sampled; however, in different localities, suggesting different habitat specificities. These results, together with morphological differences among B. alleni lineages, suggest a subspecies taxonomic status for the Guiana Shield population, B. alleni beddardi.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.1283.186911

Authors: Pannawat Supapannachart, Sithichoke Tangphatsornruang, Wirulda Pootakham, Chutima Sonthirod, Sissades Tongsima, Pongsakorn Wangkumhang, Alisa Wilantho, Ampika Thongphakdee, Saowaphang Sanannu, Pongsatorn Kongjak, Thewarach Vechmanus, Supatsorn Panyalert, Gunnaporn Suriyaphol

Abstract: Fea’s muntjac (Muntiacus feae) is a poorly known cervid restricted to forested regions along the Thai–Myanmar border, and its ex-situ population in Thailand has declined to critically low numbers. Limited founder size and incomplete pedigree records raise concerns about inbreeding and the loss of genetic diversity, underscoring the need for genome-based assessments to support effective conservation management. In this study, restriction site-associated DNA sequencing (RADseq) was applied to investigate genetic diversity, relatedness, and population structure among the remaining ex-situ Fea’s muntjac individuals in Thailand, including one putative hybrid. Genome-wide single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were generated and analyzed using phylogenetic reconstruction, Bayesian clustering, multidimensional scaling (MDS), and identity-by-descent (IBD) approaches. Phylogenetic, ADMIXTURE, and MDS analyses consistently revealed clear genetic structuring corresponding to institution of origin, whereas the putative hybrid formed a distinct genetic lineage. IBD analyses identified both first- and second-degree relationships among individuals, largely corroborating available pedigree records, while also revealing previously undocumented relatedness, emphasizing the limitations of pedigree-based management in small ex-situ populations. Notably, one individual exhibited no detectable genetic relatedness to the others and consistently formed an independent lineage across analyses, indicating the presence of unique genetic variation with high conservation value. Collectively, these results demonstrate the utility of RADseq-derived genomic data for resolving kinship, validating pedigrees, and detecting hybridization in extremely small ex-situ populations. This study represents the first comprehensive genome-wide genetic assessment of ex-situ Fea’s muntjac in Thailand and establishes an essential genomic baseline to inform breeding decisions and support long-term conservation planning for this highly threatened cervid.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.1282.183038

Authors: Aicha Gomeh-Djame, Paul J. J. Bates, Javier Juste, Marcela Suarez-Rubio, Laura Torrent, Juan Luis García-Mudarra, Eugenie Agodigo Ayangma, Félécité Yettore, Charles Félix Bilong Bilong, Eric-Moise Bakwo-Fils

Abstract: The genus Glauconycteris (Vespertilionidae) comprises small, forest-dependent bats distributed across sub-Saharan Africa. Despite its distinctive morphology, the genus remains poorly represented in collections and its taxonomy unresolved. During recent field surveys in southeastern Cameroon, ten Glauconycteris specimens were collected from the Northwestern Congolian Lowland Forest, eight from Lobéké National Park (LNP) and two from the Dja Biosphere Reserve (DBR). Morphometric and molecular analyses assigned these specimens to eight species, including representatives of three species groups (poensis, beatrix, and humeralis). One species, G. superba, is recorded for the first time from Cameroon and two are described herein as new to science, Glauconycteris baka sp. nov. and Glauconycteris lobeke sp. nov. These findings increase the total number of recognised Glauconycteris species to 15 and confirm that G. beatrix, as previously understood, represents a species complex, revealing further cryptic diversity within the genus. By combining taxonomic, ecological, and distributional data, our results indicate that most members of the genus tolerate moderate habitat degradation and that all 11 species recorded from Cameroon occur within or adjacent to at least one protected area. This study provides the first integrated taxonomic assessment of Glauconycteris in Cameroon, refines species distributions, and contributes additional ecological data for three species (G. gleni, G. egeria, and G. curryae) currently listed as Data Deficient on the IUCN Red List. Our findings underscore the importance of continued sampling in the Guineo-Congolian region to better inform the conservation of Africa’s forest-dependent bats.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.1280.163907

Authors: Suyama H. Boyagoda, Madhava Meegaskumbura, Kelum Manamendra-Arachchi

Abstract: A new species of spiny mouse, Mus (Pyromys) dumbara sp. nov., is described from the Dumbara (Knuckles) Mountain Range in Sri Lanka, based on an integrated assessment of external morphology, cranial characteristics, mitochondrial and nuclear DNA sequence data. This species is assigned to the subgenus Pyromys on the basis of two defining cranial characteristics: the presence of a supraorbital ridge and incisive foramina that extend to the mid-length of first upper molar. Mus dumbara sp. nov. is characterised by a tail distinctly longer than its combined head and body length and a moderately prominent supraorbital ridge which is clearer at the junction between parietal and frontal upon the orbit. There are several other external and cranial characteristics which can be used to distinguish M. dumbara sp. nov. from each pyromys species. Genetic analysis further confirms the distinctiveness of M. dumbara sp. nov. Mitochondrial cytochrome-b sequences reveal deep divergence from other Sri Lankan spiny mice (M. mayori and M. fernandoni), with uncorrected pairwise genetic distances exceeding 11.7%. This level of genetic separation, combined with its distinctive morphology and geographically restricted distribution in the Dumbara valley, provides strong evidence for its status as a new species endemic to Sri Lanka.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.1276.169771

Authors: Noundja Liyabin, Folega Fousseni, Polo-Akpisso Aniko, Beckline Mukete, Eve Bohnett, Chabi Djagoun, Segniagbeto Hoinsoude Gabriel, Wala Kperkouma, Komlan Batawila

Abstract: Protected areas are created to serve two major objectives, which include the securing of ecosystem services and the conservation of biodiversity. However, the status of primates around the Fazao-Malfakassa National Park, which is the last refuge for threatened primates in Togo, is a call for concern. Using a questionnaire survey with a semi-structured interview protocol, this study examines primate diversity and its relationship with surrounding communities. Of the 12 primate species identified through community interviews, Erythrocebus patas was the most frequently cited (23.18% of citations), followed by Cercopithecus mona (14.29%). The species assemblage included the endangered Colobus vellerosus and the locally extinct or extremely rare Pan troglodytes verus. Analysis of human-primate relationships revealed that local communities utilize primates primarily as a food source (45.45% of respondents), for cultural representations (31.82%), and for religious purposes (18.18%) (percentages calculated from multiple-response questionnaires). The study also found three endogenous primate conservation and management principles that focus on the control of crop destruction and adherence to local cultural and religious norms. Due to this complex relationship between local populations and primates, it is necessary to adapt integrated approaches that combine monitoring efforts, awareness campaigns, law enforcement, and ecotourism development while prioritizing primate conservation and ecosystem functions.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.1266.162023

Authors: Fernando Anaguano-Yancha, Ana Lucía Pilatasig, Laura Simba, Mauricio Herrera-Madrid, Galo Zapata-Ríos, Jorge Brito

Abstract: The crab-eating fox, Cerdocyon thous, is the most broadly distributed native canid in South America, occupying a wide range of ecosystems from open savannas to dense tropical forests from Venezuela to Argentina. Its geographical range is expanding towards the Pacific coast of Central America by crossing the Darien rainforest. In Ecuador, its presence has been poorly documented and remains ecologically ambiguous. In this study, we confirm the presence of C. thous in north-eastern Ecuador based on two roadkill specimens collected in Sucumbíos Province and two independent photographic records from Yasuni National Park, which were obtained through systematic camera-trapping. Stomach-content analysis revealed a predominantly insectivorous and opportunistic diet which includes insects, arachnids, reptiles, and amphibians. In addition, an ectoparasite analysis found parasitism by the introduced cattle tick Rhipicephalus microplus, highlighting potential risks of pathogen transmission between domestic animals and wildlife. Mitochondrial cytochrome b sequences from form a well-supported distinct haplotype from other South American lineages, suggesting that forest-dwelling foxes in eastern Ecuador may represent a separate evolutionary unit with unique ecological adaptations to rainforest environments. These findings underscore the importance of continued monitoring of C. thous in the Amazon, particularly in the context of road expansion, habitat alteration, and increasing interactions with domestic animals such as domestic dogs. Our results have implications for taxonomic assessment, ecological understanding, and conservation planning of this widespread, yet understudied, Neotropical canid in Ecuador.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.1265.157429

Authors: Eluzai Dinai Pinto Sandoval, José Eduard Hernández-Guevara, Agda Maria Bernegossi, Pedro Henrique Faria Peres, Renato Caparroz, José Maurício Barbanti Duarte

Abstract: The accurate classification of Neotropical deer is essential for effective conservation strategies; however, many species within the genus Mazama remain taxonomically unresolved due to morphological similarities and historical uncertainties. Mazama tschudii, originally described from the western Andes of Peru, has been debated due to the absence of a designated type specimen and its resemblance to other brocket species. This study integrates morphological, cytogenetic, and molecular data to clarify its taxonomic status, designate a neotype, and highlight its significance for conservation. A recently collected specimen from La Ramada, Lambayeque, Peru, matched the original description of Wagner (1855), exhibiting a smaller size, darker pelage, and distinct cranial features compared to closely related species such as Mazama americana, M. temama, and gray brockets (Subulo gouazoubira, Passalites nemorivagus). Cytogenetic analysis revealed a diploid number of 2n = 42 and a fundamental number (FN) of 68, with extensive chromosomal rearrangements that distinguish it from other Mazama species and suggest reproductive isolation. Mitogenome analysis placed M. tschudii as a sister species to M. temama, yet distinct from M. americana. Despite this close molecular relationship with M. temama, chromosomal divergence and BAC-FISH results demonstrated independent evolutionary trajectories, with ten centric and four tandem fusions differentiating their karyotypes. These results provide robust chromosomal and genomic evidence to validate M. tschudii as a distinct species under the biological species concept. The formal neotype designation from its historical type locality establishes a definitive taxonomic reference, contributing critical insights into the evolutionary complexity of Neotropical deer and reinforcing the importance of integrative taxonomy in shaping conservation priorities.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.1262.151139

Authors: Zhong-Yu Wang, Guang-Hou Chai, Shamshidin Abduriyim

Abstract: During a Chiroptera resource survey conducted in 2023 on the Pamir Plateau of China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, two adult male bat individuals were captured. External morphology examination revealed small-sized individuals characterized by long, narrow ears with straight tragus structures tapering to sharp tips—features diagnostic of the genus Myotis. Concurrently, we obtained free-flight echolocation calls from the bats: the signals showed an initial frequency of 65.12 ± 2.12 kHz, terminal frequency of 42.78 ± 1.27 kHz, peak energy frequency of 47.41 ± 1.46 kHz, pulse duration of 2.52 ± 0.26 ms, and inter-pulse interval of 94.01 ± 31.41 ms. Based on skull morphological traits and bioacoustic data, the specimens were preliminarily identified as Myotis aurascens. However, our phylogenetic analysis based on the mitochondrial cytochrome b (Cytb) gene revealed that sequences attributed to M. aurascens and M. davidii formed a single strongly supported clade, underscoring the unresolved taxonomic status of these species. Irrespective of the exact species assignment, this discovery constitutes the first documented occurrence of the M. davidii/aurascens complex on the Pamir Plateau, thereby extending the known distribution range in China. Notably, these specimens represent the highest-elevation record for this group to date (3200 m). Our study provides the first comprehensive description of cranial morphology and echolocation signatures for this taxon in a high-altitude habitat. These findings significantly enhance regional biodiversity inventories and offer critical baseline data for plateau ecosystem research.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.1262.164459

Authors: Tao Zhang, Siyu Yang, Haijun Jiang, Lin Gu, Qingfang Zou, Changkun Fu, Keji Guo, Tong Zhang, Shaoying Liu, Shunde Chen

Abstract: The genus Soriculus (Soricidae, Eulipotyphla) currently comprises five recognized species, predominantly distributed in the Himalayas and the Gaoligong Mountains. During our survey of small mammals in Medog County, Tibet, China, 11 Soriculus specimens were collected. In this study, we conducted phylogenetic analyses of the genus using one mitochondrial gene (Cytb) and three nuclear genes (BRCA1, APOB, and RAG2) to assess the phylogenetic relationships of these specimens. The morphology of the 11 specimens was compared with other species within the genus. Our results demonstrate that these specimens represent a new species, Soriculus dexingensis sp. nov. Phylogenetic analyses revealed that S. dexingensis sp. nov. forms a distinct sister clade to S. medogensis, and the Kimura 2-Parameter (K2P) distances between all known species of Soriculus ranged from 0.111 to 0.187, indicating interspecific divergence. Morphologically, the new species is distinguished by a relatively longer tail and a significantly higher TL/HB ratio. The discovery of S. dexingensis sp. nov. in Medog County suggests that the diversity of Soriculus species remains underestimated. Further biodiversity surveys of small mammals across the Himalayan region are warranted.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.1261.163471

Authors: Ameyalli Marín-Ventura, Liliana Rosas-Durán, Cárol Sierra-Durán, Joaquín Arroyo-Cabrales, Rodrigo A. Medellín

Abstract: An updated checklist of the bats of Mexico is presented, comprising eight families, 71 genera, and 146 species. Since the last checklist published by Ramírez-Pulido et al. (2014), two new species have been described: Vampyressa villai and Corynorhinus leonpaniaguae, and two more, Phyllops falcatus and Phyllostomus hastatus, were recorded for the first time in the country. Additionally, 22 taxonomic changes have occurred since the previous list. Of the 146 bat species recorded, 20 are endemic to Mexico, highlighting the country’s megadiversity, reflection of its unique biogeographic and ecological characteristics. This remarkable distinction also brings significant responsibility, as Mexico holds the highest number of endemic bat species worldwide. Consequently, protecting these endemic species and those at risk of extinction must be a top priority in the country’s decision-making processes and conservation policies.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.1258.145290

Authors: Mikhail Petrovich Tiunov, Sen Liu, Jiang Feng, Pipat Soisook, Tinglei Jiang

Abstract: On the basis of molecular and morphological studies of samples collected in China, a new Myotis species belonging to the siligorensis group is described, Myotis kalkoae Tiunov, Jiang, & Liu, sp. nov. The species rank of M. sowerbyi and M. alticraniatus was confirmed. All three taxa under consideration belong to different genetic lines and can be distinguished from each other and from other morphologically similar species based on the shape of their baculum and tragus. The difficulties of taxonomy within the M. siligorensis species group are discussed.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.1255.161942

Authors: Son Truong Nguyen, Hai Tuan Bui, Vinh Quang Dau, Phuong Dinh Le, Yen Huong Vu

Abstract: A new species of fossorial mole (Eulipotyphla, Talpidae, Euroscaptor) is described from Pu Luong Nature Reserve, north-central Vietnam, based on distinct genetic and morphological characteristics. The species inhabits a geographically small and isolated upland patch (900–1100 m a.s.l.), sharply bounded by a nearly vertical escarpment. The new taxon is diagnosed by an extremely reduced tail both externally and osteologically, comprising only six or seven caudal vertebrae, the lowest number documented in the genus to date. The species differs further from known congeners in Southeast Asia by its slender cranium, narrow rostrum, elongated inner zygomatic arches, and significantly smaller anterior dentition. Phylogenetic analyses of the mitochondrial Cyt b gene indicate genetic distances of 5.41–6.35% from its closest relative, E. subanura, and clarify the evolutionary placement of the species within the genus. Multivariate analyses of 36 craniodental measurements identified key variables contributing to interspecific differentiation among Vietnamese moles, including breadth between infraorbital foramina, length of zygomatic arch, upper incisor–canine length, premolars length, and lower incisor–canine length. Specimens from the type locality show that females are larger than males. The discovery of this new Euroscaptor species currently raises the total number of recognized species in the genus to eleven worldwide and brings the number of fossorial mole species recorded in Vietnam to six. It highlights both the underestimated mammalian diversity of Vietnam and the importance of continued integrative surveys in montane landscapes, where micro-endemic and evolutionarily distinct taxa remain insufficiently documented and vulnerable to environmental change.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.1254.148057

Authors: Wendy C. Hernández-Mazariegos, R. Eduardo Palma, Luis E. Escobar

Abstract: Rodentia is the most widely distributed, diverse, and numerous order of the class Mammalia. Nevertheless, rodents are poorly studied in terms of their conservation compared to other mammalian orders. Chile has one of the highest rates of extinction risk in the world for mammals (20%), where rodents have the highest risk (32%). The data of threatened rodent species is not comprehensive, as many species are still classified as data deficient. This lack of information could mean that the actual number of threatened species is higher than currently recognized. Using different databases, the biogeography, conservation status, ecological roles of rodent species in Chile are updated and described, and their potential zoonotic implication discussed. Results revealed that rodent species richness is highest in the northern and central-southern regions of Chile, where fewer protected areas exist, suggesting an inefficient role of public protected areas for the conservation of rodents and potentially other taxa. The conservation classification by the Chilean government did not match the conservation status from international classifications, revealing poor information for several species at national level. Functional traits of the species studied suggest that rodents are good predictors of ecosystem health due to their rapid life cycles and wide distribution, although distribution was predictive for only some species. Our results indicated that better information on the distribution and rodent species richness provide opportunities to understand complex rodent-borne diseases such as hantavirus. This study validates the use of rodents as indicators to assess ecosystem health and design effective biodiversity conservation plans.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.1249.135209

Authors: Nur Ain Awatif Mohd-Kanapiah, Yen Chi Lok, Nor Azila Sendeng, Muhammad Ali Zulhazim, Mohd Farhan Mohd Johar, Melvin Amandus, Adrian Rawlennes, Noor Haliza Hasan

Abstract: Gomantong and Madai caves are two of the largest limestone formations with intricate cave systems located in the Lower Kinabatangan and Kunak areas, respectively, in Sabah, Malaysia, Borneo. Despite their ecological and economic significance, limited published information exists on the bat species inhabiting these caves. This study aims to analyze bat diversity at both caves and compare their species richness and diversity to other cave inventories in Sabah and Sarawak. Two bat surveys were conducted around Gomantong caves with a combined trapping effort of 56 trap nights deployed in the surrounding forest. A bat survey at Madai cave utilized 16 trap nights deployed within the caves. A total of 974 and 264 bats were captured from Gomantong and Madai caves, representing 14 and 8 bat species, respectively. A compilation of bat species records from previous studies shows that Gomantong and Madai caves host at least 26 and 30 bat species, respectively. Comparisons with other caves across Malaysian Borneo reveal that Mulu cave and Wind cave in Sarawak, each with 29 species, rank just below Madai cave in bat diversity. Gomantong and Madai caves serve as critical roosting habitats for diverse bat species, including Borneo-endemic and rare species (e.g., Myotis gomantongensis, M. borneoensis), highlighting their ecological importance and the urgent need for conservation and sustainable management to mitigate anthropogenic threats. This survey provides an updated checklist of bats in the Gomantong caves and the Madai cave from Sabah, Malaysia. This study also compiles the bat species diversity of other selected caves across Malaysian Borneo.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.1242.117019

Authors: Steven van der Mije, Chris Smeenk, Pepijn Kamminga

Abstract: This is the first part of a catalogue containing all known types in the mammal collection of Naturalis Biodiversity Center, Leiden, The Netherlands, covering the orders Monotremata to Rodentia in the sequence according to Wilson and Reeder (2005). The remaining orders will be treated in the second part later. The catalogue began in the early 1990s as a basic inventory using historic catalogues. Chris Smeenk, then curator of the mammal collection, researched the types until his death in 2017. The current authors continued his work, resulting in the present publication. We discuss in this first part 427 names. For 341 of these, Naturalis holds name-bearing types. For Sciurus erythrogenys Schlegel, 1863 and Macroxus schlegelii Gray, 1867 we formally designate the lectotypes.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.1233.140676

Authors: Shuang Liu, Songping Zhao, Jing Wang, Changkun Fu, Xuming Wang, Shaoying Liu, Shunde Chen

Abstract: Murinae is the largest known subfamily of Muridae and includes 15 tribes and 3 genera (incertae sedis). Although the phylogeny of Murinae has been studied, its phylogenetic relationships have not been completely elucidated. We used phylogenetic framework and molecular dating methodologies with the vast majority of available mitochondrial genomes to disentangle the phylogenetic relationships and evolutionary history of Murinae. Sixteen tribes were identified within the Murinae subfamily. Among these, fifteen tribes were found to be consistent with those currently recognized. Hapalomyini (Clade A) was located at the base of the Murinae clade with strong nodal support contrary to previous studies, which showed that Phloeomyini diverged first. The Clade B consisted of Micromyini, Rattini, and the genus Vernaya. Vernaya cannot be accommodated in any existing tribe. The origin of Murinae dates back to 17.22 Ma. The split between Micromyini and Vernayini was dated to 11.69 Ma during the Miocene, indicating that they were both early branches of Murinae. Combined with the differences between Vernaya and its sister tribes (Micromyini and Rattini) in morphology, skull and teeth, we validated a new tribe, Vernayini tribe nov. We believe that it is necessary to combine morphological and molecular perspectives (especially from a genome-wide perspective) to determine the phylogenetic position of tribes with an uncertain taxonomic position in Murinae.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.1230.127858

Authors: Francesco Nardelli, Kurt Heißig

Abstract: This study examines the ecomorphological characteristics of two Asian rhinoceros species: the critically endangered Sundaic rhinoceros and the vulnerable Indian rhinoceros. Among the five living rhinoceros taxa, the three Asian species are notable for their tusked incisors. Fossil evidence highlights the divergence between Rhinoceros and Eurhinoceros in cheek tooth morphology, linked to different dietary specialisations. The Sundaic rhinoceros, a generalist browser restricted to the Ujung Kulon peninsula of Java, exhibits distinctive features such as a grey hide with polygonal patterns, a typical 'saddle' on the nape, a slender head shape and a protrusion instead of a horn in females. The latter is a unique trait among Rhinocerotini species. In contrast, the Indian rhinoceros, a variable grazer, inhabits riverine grasslands in northern India and southern Nepal, displaying deep skin folds and tubercles. Ecological behaviours differ significantly, with the Sundaic rhinoceros being solitary wanderers and Indian rhinoceros forming temporary crashes. Both species possess unique adaptations for survival, emphasising the importance of understanding their systematics for effective conservation. The study further examines the interrelationships among the one-horned Asian species of the Rhinocerotidae family, highlighting their distinct features. The revision delves into skull morphology, dentition, and ecological dynamics, revealing evolutionary patterns and ancestral traits. Both single horned rhinoceroses went a separate and diverging way of evolution that was not triggered by geographical separation but by niche partitioning. Comparative analyses shed light on the evolutionary trajectory and ecological adaptations of each species. The fossils, the ecological and morphological adaptations of both species, suggest designating 'Rhinoceros' sondaicus as distinct from Rhinoceros unicornis, under the one-horned rhinoceros Eurhinoceros, as proposed by Gray (1868). Eurhinoceros sondaicus emerges as a persistently more primitive form.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.1228.137496

Authors: Zhong-Yu Wang, Shamshidin Abduriyim

Abstract: The Caspian barbastelle, Barbastella caspica, has spread widely in the Caspian region, Iran, and Central Asia; however, there is no evidence of its occurrence in China so far. During a field investigation, we collected a single specimen of B. caspica in China’s Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region. At the same time, we obtained the free-flight echolocation calls of the bat. It omitted signals with start frequency of 33.15 ± 1.43 kHz, end frequency of 29.82 ± 0.40 kHz, frequency of most energy 31.48 ± 0.40 kHz, duration of 2.43 ± 0.24 ms, and a pulse interval of 246.57 ± 9.48 ms, which are probably type-I sounds emitted through the mouth. We also sequenced its entire mitochondrial genome to elucidate the genomic structure and its evolutionary relationships with closely related Barbastella. The mitochondrial genome of B. caspica spans 16,933 bp, comprising 13 protein-encoding genes, 22 transfer RNA genes, two ribosomal RNA genes, and a displacement loop/control region. Consistent with previous bat mitogenome reports, the majority of mitochondrial genes are encoded on the heavy chain. A phylogenetic analysis based on 13 protein-coding genes revealed that Rhogeessa, Plecotus, and B. caspica formed a clade within Vespertilionidae. Barbastella caspica was found to be a sister species to B. beijingensis and B. leucomelas in phylogenetic trees using the cytochrome b and ND1 gene sequences. This is the first report of the mitogenome of a member of the genus Barbastella, as well as the first record of the distribution of B. caspica in China and first documentation of its echolocation calls.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.1218.126535

Authors: Celeste M. López, Manfredo A. Turcios-Casco, Eric van den Berghe, Nicté Ordóñez-Garza, Martin R. Alvarez

Abstract: Deer mice, Peromyscus, thrive in diverse environments and altitudes across North and Central America. The number of extant species continues to be debated with species counts ranging from 53 to 83. This study represents the first comprehensive historical and taxonomic account of the genus Peromyscus for Honduras. We systematically compiled records from all available sources, incorporating verified genetic and morphological evidence. We confirm the presence of P. beatae, P. cordillerae, P. nicaraguae, P. salvadorensis and P. stirtoni for Honduras. The distribution maps provided here include confirmed records and approximate localities in a few cases and offer insights into the geographical distribution of these species in Honduras. Conducting a comprehensive assessment of the taxonomic status of Peromyscus in Honduras is imperative to achieve accurate conservation assessments within the larger Mesoamerican landscape. The present review establishes the baseline for future research on deer mice in Honduras, aiding in the validation of distributions and ecological data for the poorly understood genus Peromyscus in the country.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.1210.128570

Authors: Franger J. García, José Ochoa-G, José L. Poma-Urey, Bruce W. Miller, Fábio C. Falcão, Martín Roberto del Valle Alvarez

Abstract: The Caatinga, an exclusive biome in Brazil, is the largest tropical dry forest area in the Americas. It is characterized by a semi-arid climate and various soils that harbor a great diversity of flora and fauna. Novel records of aerial insectivorous bat species in the family Molossidae in the Chapada Diamantina, northeastern Brazil are presented. The study is based on field sampling of 115 molossid bat specimens from six genera and 12 taxonomically confirmed species, along with four taxa requiring further evaluation for definitive species identification. All specimens were obtained using mist nets around a small freshwater lagoon surrounded by semideciduous dry forest. The verified genera were Cynomops, Eumops, Molossops, Molossus, Neoplatymops, and Nyctinomops. Our findings enhance the understanding of bat diversity in the Brazilian Caatinga, with the first records of Eumops delticus, E. bonariensis, and Molossus currentium. The most abundant species were Molossus rufus, Eumops glaucinus, Cynomops planirostris, Nyctinomops laticaudatus, and Molossus molossus. Previously unreported morphological and morphometric variations for these Caatinga taxa were examined. Additionally, information on sexual dimorphism in craniodental characteristics of Molossops temminckii and variations in the presence of the sagittal crest in Neoplatymops mattogrossensis are provided. Based on the voucher specimens from this study, the recognized number of species of Molossidae known from the Caatinga has increased to 21. Our results offer new insights into the taxonomy and biogeography of Neotropical molossids, highlighting their importance as members of bat communities in dry forest ecosystems from northeastern South America.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.1200.118823

Authors: Mónica Cruz, Wim Bergmans, Toyoyuki Takada, Toshihiko Shiroishi, Atsushi Yoshiki

Abstract: In the present paper, the existence and location of the type series of the Japanese dancing mouse or waltzer, Mus wagneri variety rotans Droogleever Fortuyn, 1912, are established, and a lectotype is designated. Available type specimens are measured, and some morphological parameters, sex, and general condition of the specimens are recorded. A literature survey was conducted, and an attempt is made to clarify the position of M. wagneri variety rotans in the taxonomy of Mus. A genetic analysis suggests that the type series of the Japanese dancing mouse represent a crossbred, or derivation of a crossbred, between the original Japanese dancing mouse of Mus musculus molossinus Temminck 1844 origin and European fancy or laboratory mice of Mus musculus domesticus Schwarz & Schwarz, 1943 origin. Much of their genome was replaced and occupied by Mus musculus domesticus type genome, probably through extensive breeding with European mice.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.1196.116144

Authors: Manfredo A. Turcios-Casco, Vinícius Cardoso Cláudio, Thomas E. Lee Jr

Abstract: Molossus pretiosus is a molossid bat that has been thought to exist in Honduras. While some authors have suggested its range extends all the way to Mexico, others have placed its northernmost distribution in Nicaragua. We present evidence, based on one specimen collected in 2005, confirming the presence of this species in the Caribbean of Honduras within the Islas de la Bahía department. This discovery increases the count of known species within this family to 18 in the country and raises the total bat species count for Honduras to 114. We recommend a detailed study of historical specimens to confirm the identification of species that may have been misidentified as well as a thorough examination of molossids distributed in northern Honduras.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.1195.117999

Authors: Loren E. Babcock

Abstract: Both authorship and spelling of the extinct giant sloth genus Megalonyx and its type species, M. jeffersonii (Mammalia, Xenarthra, Pilosa, Megalonychidae), have been inconsistent. The genus-group name has been cited with two different authorships and three dates, and it has been spelled with two different suffixes. The species-group name has been cited with four different authors and dates, and it has been spelled with two different endings. Megalonyx Jefferson, 1799 is the first valid use of the genus-group name; the correct original spelling has the –onyx suffix. The type species of Megalonyx is Megatherium jeffersonii Desmarest, 1822; the correct original spelling has an –ii ending. A vernacular word, megalonyx, refers to species classified in the genus Megalonyx Jefferson, 1799.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.1195.115699

Authors: Xiaoxin Pei, Zhongzheng Chen, Quan Li, Xueyou Li, Changzhe Pu, Kang Luo, Jing Luo, Mingjin Pu, Hongjiao Wang, Laxman Khanal, Xuelong Jiang

Abstract: Himalayan shrews of the genus Soriculus (Soricidae, Eulipotyphla), currently represented by four nominal species, are endemic to the Himalayas and the Gaoligong Mountains. In April 2022 and April 2023, a total of 10 specimens of Soriculus were collected from Beibeng and Damu, Medog County, Tibet, China. The morphology of the specimens was compared with the four recognised species of the genus Soriculus. Additionally, two mitochondrial (Cyt b and 12S) and three nuclear (APOB, BRCAI and RAG2) genes were sequenced to test the phylogenetic relationships of these specimens with the other species. Our results indicate that these specimens represent a distinct species, Soriculus beibengensis sp. nov., which is formally described here. The new species is distinguished from the other Soriculus species by the combination of darker pelages, smaller size, the relatively stubby nasal and the widened posterior processes of incisors. Phylogenetic analyses revealed the new species is sister to S. minor. The p–distance of Cyt b gene between S. beibengensis sp. nov. and other nominal Soriculus species ranges from 9.1–16.3%. This new species has a known distribution at an elevation of 1,500–2,125 m in Medog County, Tibet, China. The discovery of this new species from Medog County has important implications for interpreting small mammal biogeographic patterns in the eastern Himalaya and the mountain chains of south-west China.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.1186.111592

Authors: Xueyang Ren, Yifan Xu, Yixian Li, Hongfeng Yao, Yi Fang, Laxman Khanal, Lin Cheng, Wei Zeng, Xuelong Jiang, Zhongzheng Chen

Abstract: Asian shrew moles, genus Uropsilus, are the most primitive members of family Talpidae. They are distributed mainly in southwestern China and adjacent Bhutan, Myanmar, and Vietnam. In June 2022, we collected five specimens of Uropsilus from Mount Huanggang, Jiangxi Province, eastern China, which is the highest peak of the Wuyi Mountains. We sequenced two mitochondrial (CYT B and 12S rRNA) and three nuclear (PLCB4, RAG1, and RAG2) genes to estimate the phylogenetic relationship of the five shrew moles. We also compared their morphology with recognized species within the genus. Our results show that these specimens collected from Mount Huanggang differ from all named species in Uropsilus. We formally describe the species here as Uropsilus huanggangensis sp. nov. Morphologically, the new species is distinguishable from the other Uropsilus species by the combination of dark chocolate-brown pelage, long snout, enlarged first upper incisor, similarly sized lacrimal and infraorbital foramens, and the curved and sickle-like coronoid process. The genetic distances of the cytochrome b (CYT B) gene between U. huanggangensis and other recognized Uropsilus species ranged between 9.3% and 16.4%. The new species is geographically distant from other species in the genus and is the easternmost record of the Uropsilus. The divergence time of U. huanggangensis was estimated to be the late Pliocene (1.92 Ma, 95% CI = 0.88–2.99).

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.1185.111615

Authors: Zifan Shi, Hongfeng Yao, Kai He, Weipeng Bai, Jiajun Zhou, Jingyi Fan, Weiting Su, Wenhui Nie, Shuzhen Yang, Kenneth O. Onditi, Xuelong Jiang, Zhongzheng Chen

Abstract: The hedgehog genus Mesechinus (Erinaceidae, Eulipotyphla) is currently comprised of four species, M. dauuricus, M. hughi, M. miodon, and M. wangi. Except for M. wangi, which is found in southwestern China, the other three species are mainly distributed in northern China and adjacent Mongolia and Russia. From 2018 to 2023, we collected seven Mesechinus specimens from Anhui and Zhejiang provinces, eastern China. Here, we evaluate the taxonomic and phylogenetic status of these specimens by integrating molecular, morphometric, and karyotypic approaches. Our results indicate that the Anhui and Zhejiang specimens are distinct from the four previously recognized species and are a new species. We formally described it here as Mesechinus orientalis sp. nov. It is the only Mesechinus species occurring in eastern China and is geographically distant from all known congeners. Morphologically, the new species is most similar to M. hughi, but it is distinguishable from that species by the combination of its smaller size, shorter spines, and several cranial characteristics. Mesechinus orientalis sp. nov. is a sister to the lineage composed of M. hughi and M. wangi from which it diverged approximately 1.10 Ma.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.1181.108019

Authors: Petr Hrabina, Ludmila Pernerová, Josef Suchomel, Jan Robovský

Abstract: Gorals represent ungulate mammals of the Palearctic and Indo-Malayan realms that face habitat destruction and intense hunting pressure. Their classification has been the subject of various (mainly genetic) assessments in the last decade, but some results are conflicting, hampering some conservation-based decisions. Genetic sampling of gorals has increased considerably in recent years, at least for mitochondrial (mt) DNA. Results based on two mt genes (cytochrome b and the D-loop) are currently available. Still, the utility of cytochrome oxidase subunit I remains unanalysed, even though it belongs among the gene markers that enable a correct species identification in mammals. This study examines phylogenetic relationships and species delimitation in gorals using all currently available cytochrome oxidase subunit I sequences, including the not yet analysed goral population from Pakistan. Our results of various phylogenetic approaches, such as maximum parsimony, likelihood and Bayesian inference, and exploration of species boundaries via species delimitation support the validity of six species of goral, namely N. baileyi, N. caudatus, N. cranbrooki, N. evansi, N. goral, and N. griseus. This result accords well with results based on other mt genes, especially the cytochrome b from the highly exhaustive data sampling. Our study also summarises common sources of errors in the assessment of goral phylogeny and taxonomy and highlights future priorities in understanding goral diversification.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.1180.109091

Authors: Héctor E. Ramírez-Chaves, Darwin M. Morales-Martínez, Daniela Martínez-Medina, Paula A. Ossa-López, Fredy A. Rivera-Páez

Abstract: The genus Molossops includes two monotypic species of insectivore bats distributed in South America: Molossops neglectus and Molossops temminckii. Both can be differentiated, based on sizes, M. temminckii being smaller (forearm less than 33 mm). Despite being monotypic, at least two additional subspecies have been described for M. temminckii, of which M. temminckii griseiventer from the inter-Andean Valley of the Magdalena River in Colombia might represent a valid taxon. To test the taxonomic status of M. t. griseiventer, we reviewed specimens of M. temminckii from cis- and trans-Andean localities in Colombia. We used Cytochrome-b and Cytochrome Oxidase I comparisons to test the phylogenetic position of cis- and trans-Andean samples and compared qualitative morphology, morphometric and bioacoustics. Our results show that M. t. griseiventer is differentiated from cis-Andean specimens, providing further evidence of its validity at the species level. Furthermore, M. temminckii (sensu stricto) is also distributed in Colombia, but both M. griseiventer and M. temminckii are allopatric, with the Andes acting as a barrier. The specific identity of the specimens from the Caribbean Region of Colombia needs a new evaluation, but our results clearly show that the diversity of Molossops is underestimated.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.1180.105497

Authors: Héctor E. Ramírez-Chaves, Alexandra Cardona-Giraldo, Paula A. Ossa-López, Héctor Fabio Arias Monsalve, Fredy A. Rivera-Páez, Darwin M. Morales-Martínez

Abstract: The western or desert red bat, Lasiurus frantzii, is a cryptic insectivore species distributed in the Neotropics from Mexico south through Central America to Panama. L. frantzii was long considered a subspecies of the red bat, Lasiurus blossevillii, but recently it was elevated to full-species status based on genetic information. Here we present evidence of the presence of L. frantzii in the Andean Region of Colombia, confirming the species’ presence in South America; the new record, from 3836 m a.s.l., is also the highest elevation known for the species. We suggest that L. frantzii might be widely distributed in trans-Andean areas of Colombia, Ecuador, Venezuela, and perhaps Peru and Bolivia. However, a review and exploration of additional morphological traits to identify the species are necessary because of the uncertainty of the distribution of L. frantzii.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.1179.108759

Authors: Susette Castañeda-Rico, Lillian D. Parker, Evelyn Sánchez, Sheccid Rivas-Trasvina, Melissa T. R. Hawkins, Cody W. Edwards, Jesús E. Maldonado

Abstract: The Crested-tailed deer mouse, Habromys lophurus, is one of seven arboreal species within the genus Habromys. Species of this genus are monotypic, relatively rare, and occur in low densities. Their geographical distribution is highly fragmented due to being restricted to montane cloud forest in Mesoamerica and they are of conservation concern. All Habromys species are endemic to Mexico, except H. lophurus, which is also distributed in Guatemala and El Salvador. In this study, we obtained and characterized the first mitogenome and several thousand nuclear ultraconserved elements (UCEs) of H. lophurus to determine its phylogenetic position within neotomine–peromyscine mice. Its mitogenome sequence (16,509 bp) is only the second complete mitogenome obtained for this poorly known genus. We also obtained the first nuclear genomic data for H. lophurus, including 3,654 UCE loci, as well as a partial mitogenome of H. simulatus (6,349 bp), and 2,186 UCE for the outgroup Holochilus sciureus. Phylogenetic analyses that included our newly generated genomic data coupled with previously published data from other neotomine–peromyscine mice confirm the placement of H. lophurus, H. simulatus, and H. ixtlani within a highly supported clade. The Habromys clade was nested within a clade that also contains members of the genus Peromyscus and provides further support for the hypothesis of the paraphyly of Peromyscus. These genomic resources will contribute to future phylogenomic studies that aim to further elucidate the evolutionary history of this rare and critically endangered genus of rodents.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.1179.108766

Authors: Fernando Heberson Menezes, Thiago Borges Fernandes Semedo, Juliane Saldanha, Guilherme Siniciato Terra Garbino, Hugo Fernandes-Ferreira, Pedro Cordeiro-Estrela, Itayguara Ribeiro da Costa

Abstract: The New World porcupines of the genus Coendou comprise 16 species of arboreal nocturnal rodents. Some of these species are poorly known and have not been included in phylogenetic analyses. Based on recently collected specimens with associated tissue from the Brazilian Amazonia, we investigate the distribution and phylogenetic relationships of Roosmalens’ dwarf porcupine, Coendou roosmalenorum, using an integrative approach using mitochondrial gene sequences and morphological data from new specimens and localities. Our results recovered C. roosmalenorum in the subgenus Caaporamys. However, analyses of our molecular and combined datasets produced different topologies. The new record shows the presence of C. roosmalenorum 480 km to the southeast of the Rio Madeira and 95 km away from Rio Juruena in Mato Grosso state, indicating a wider distribution in southern Amazonia than suspected. All known records of C. roosmalenorum are in the Madeira biogeographical province, to which it might be endemic.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.1175.106113

Authors: Nicolás Tinoco, Claudia Koch, Javier E. Colmenares-Pinzón, Francisco X. Castellanos, Jorge Brito

Abstract: Neacomys is a genus of small spiny or bristly sigmodontine rodents that are common components of mammalian faunas in multiple biomes on Central and South America. Recent studies on this group have demonstrated that there is cryptic diversity yet to be discovered within currently recognized species that have not received comprehensive revisions, as well as in areas that have been overlooked. Here we ratify this assertion by describing a new species previously misidentified as the Narrow-footed Spiny Mouse (Neacomys tenuipes) from the Chocó biogeographic region in northwestern Ecuador, Neacomys marci Brito & Tinoco, sp. nov. Distinctiveness of this entity is supported by the combination of the following morphological characters: small size (head-body length 65–85 mm); long tail (69–126% longer than head-body length); pale buff-colored but gray-based belly fur; white throat; hypothenar pad usually absent; long nasals; and a condylar process higher than the coronoid process. Likewise genetic distance analyses and phylogenetic reconstructions based on cytochrome-b (Cytb) sequence data indicate a clear divergence from typical populations of N. tenuipes, and a sister relationship between them. The results presented here increase the diversity of Neacomys to 24 species, placing it among the most diverse genera within the sigmodontine rodents.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.1174.108553

Authors: Vinícius C. Cláudio, Brunna Almeida, Roberto L. M. Novaes, Marcos A. Navarro, Liliani M. Tiepolo, Ricardo Moratelli

Abstract: Histiotus is a Neotropical genus of bat that currently includes 11 species. The systematics of Histiotus has been the focus of several studies over the last decades. However, no broad systematic revision has been made, and taxonomic issues such as synonymies, use of subspecies, and specimens that do not fit the description of valid species still persist, as pointed out by several authors. Histiotus alienus was described in 1916 and is known only by the holotype. Here we present a second record of H. alienus and an amended diagnosis of this species. We use qualitative, quantitative, and morphometric analyses based on data from 184 specimens of Histiotus and almost all valid species. Our amended diagnosis establishes the taxonomic limits of H. alienus, as well as a comprehensive comparison with congeners. We also explore new diagnostic characters for H. alienus and provide a few notes on the natural history of this species. Our results highlight skull similarities among Histiotus species and reinforce the usefulness of external morphology for their correct identification. Despite our new insights into the taxonomy of the genus, several taxonomic issues remain, and a comprehensive revision of the genus is needed.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.1167.100577

Authors: Jorge Alfonso Morales-Donoso, Gabrielle Queiroz Vacari, Agda Maria Bernegossi, Eluzai Dinai Pinto Sandoval, Pedro Henrique Faria Peres, David Javier Galindo, Benoit de Thoisy, Miluse Vozdova, Svatava Kubickova, José Mauricio Barbanti Duarte

Abstract: Mazama nemorivaga (Cuvier, 1817) is a gray brocket deer that inhabits the Amazon region. An assessment of previous studies revealed inconsistencies in its current taxonomic classification, suggesting the need for an update in its genus classification. A taxonomic repositioning of this species is proposed through the collection of a specimen from its type locality (French Guiana) with subsequent morphological (coloring pattern, body measurements, and craniometry), cytogenetics (G Band, C Band, conventional Giemsa, Ag-NOR staining, and BAC probe mapping), and molecular phylogenetic analysis (mitochondrial genes Cyt B of 920 bp, COI I of 658 bp, D-loop 610 bp), and comparisons with other specimens of the same taxon, as well as other Neotropical deer species. The morphological and cytogenetic differences between this and other Neotropical Cervidae confirm the taxon as a unique and valid species. The phylogenetic analysis evidenced the basal position of the M. nemorivaga specimens within the Blastocerina clade. This shows early diversification and wide divergence from the other species, suggesting that the taxon should be transferred to a different genus. A taxonomic update of the genus name is proposed through the validation of Passalites Gloger, 1841, with Passalites nemorivagus (Cuvier, 1817) as the type species. Future research should focus on evaluating the potential existence of other species within the genus Passalites, as suggested in the literature.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.1166.103247

Authors: Rita M. Austin, Pia Merete Eriksen, Lutz Bachmann

Abstract: The endangered Galápagos sea lion (Zalophus wollebaeki) inhabits the Galápagos Islands off the coast of Ecuador. We present a complete mitochondrial genome (16 465 bp) of a female paratype from the collections of the Natural History Museum Oslo, Norway, assembled from next-generation sequencing reads. It contains all canonical protein-coding, rRNA, tRNA genes, and the D-loop region. Sequence similarity is 99.93% to a previously published conspecific mitogenome sequence and 99.37% to the mitogenome sequence of the sister species Z. californianus. Sequence similarity of the D-loop region of the Z. wollebaeki paratype mitogenome is >99%, while the sequence difference to the Z. californianus sequences exceeds 2.5%. The paratype mitogenome sequence supports the taxonomic status of Z. wollebaeki as a separate species.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.1161.99487

Authors: Pengfei Luo, Xiangyang He, Yuzhi Zhang, Jianping Ye, Min Guo, Jin Deng, Chunhui Zhou, Jiang Zhou, Libiao Zhang

Abstract: The existence of Himalayan long-eared bats, Plecotus homochrous (Chiroptera, Vespertilionidae), in China has not been previously confirmed. In this study, four bats captured with harp traps from two sites in the Maoershan National Nature Reserve in Guangxi, China were investigated. These bats have long, wide auricles, each with a prominent tragus. The length of each auricle is about the same as that of a forearm. Hairs on the ventral fur have a dark base with mixed grey and yellowish tips; those on the dorsal fur also have a dark base and are bicolored with brown tips. The thumbs are very short. A concavity is present in the front of the dorsal side of the cranium. Based on morphological characteristics and phylogeny using Cyt b gene sequences, these bats were identified as P. homochrous, thus confirming the existence of Himalayan long-eared bats in China.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.1158.96886

Authors: Dianwei Li, Chengzhi Zhang, Yuwei Cao, Ming Gao, Shiqi Chang, Menghao Xu, Zhimin Jin, Hongwei Ni

Abstract: Rodents are well known as both seed predators and dispersers of various plant species in forest ecosystems, and they play an important role in the regeneration of vegetation. Thus, the research on seed selection and vegetation regeneration by sympatric rodents is an interesting topic. To understand the characteristics of preferences of rodents for different seeds, a semi-natural enclosure experiment was performed with four rodent species (Apodemus peninsulae, Apodemus agrarius, Tscherskia triton, and Clethrionomys rufocanus) and the seeds of seven plant species (Pinus koraiensis, Corylus mandshurica, Quercus mongolica, Juglans mandshurica, Armeniaca sibirica, Prunus salicina, and Cerasus tomentosa) to investigate the differentiation in niches and patterns of resource utilization of sympatric rodents. The results showed that all the rodents had consumed many seeds of Pi. koraiensis, Co. mandshurica, and Q. mongolica but differed significantly in how they selected the different seeds. The rate of utilization (Ri) of Pi. koraiensis, Co. mandshurica, and Q. mongolica exhibited the highest values. The Ei values indicated that the rodents tested exhibited differences in their priorities used to select the seeds from different plant species. All four species of rodents exhibited obvious preferences for certain seeds. Korean field mice preferentially consumed the seeds of Q. mongolica, Co. mandshurica, and Pi. koraiensis. Striped field mice favor the seeds of Co. mandshurica, Q. mongolica, P. koraiensis, and Nanking cherry. Greater long-tailed hamsters prefer to consume the seeds of Pi. koraiensis, Co. mandshurica, Q. mongolica, Pr. salicina, and Ce. tomentosa. Clethrionomys rufocanus likes to eat the seeds of Pi. koraiensis, Q. mongolica, Co. mandshurica, and Ce. tomentosa. The results supported our hypothesis that sympatric rodents overlap in food selection. However, each rodent species has a marked preference for food selection, and different rodent species differ in their food preferences. This reflects the role of distinct food niche differentiation in their coexistence.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.1151.97126

Authors: Altangerel T. Dursahinhan, Daniel A. Kenkel, Scott L. Gardner

Abstract: Published studies and ten new unpublished records included herein reveal that approximately 174 species of endoparasites (helminths and protozoans) are known from 65 of 163 species of rodents that occupy the subterranean ecotope globally. Of those, 94 endoparasite species were originally described from these rodents. A total of 282 host-parasite associations are summarized from four major zoogeographic regions including Ethiopian, Palearctic/Oriental, Nearctic, and Neotropical. Thirty-four parasite records from the literature have been identified to only the level of the genus. In this summary, ten new records have been added, and the most current taxonomic status of each parasite species is noted. Interestingly, there are no data on endoparasites from more than 68% of described subterranean rodents, which indicates that discovery and documentation are at an early stage and must continue.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.1149.85821

Authors: Xiaoling Liang, Huixian Xie, Yannan Li, Zhenglanyi Huang, Song Li, Yi Wu, Wenhua Yu

Abstract: Recent studies have revealed that the Kerivoula depressa complex should be divided into two species, K. depressa distributed mainly in Myanmar, Vietnam, Laos and Cambodia, and K. dongduongana found only in the Annamite Mountains of Vietnam, Laos and Cambodia. In November 2018 and April 2019, 24 woolly bats were collected by two-band harp traps in Xishuangbanna, Yunnan, China. Based on morphological, morphometric, and phylogenetic (COI, Cytb, and RAG2 gene sequences) analyses, these bats were identified as K. depressa and K. dongduongana, representing two new species records for the country. Including the new records, six Kerivoula species have been recorded in China, namely K. depressa, K. dongduongana, K. furva, K. kachinensis, K. picta and K. titania. To facilitate their identification and biological research in the future, we have provided an up-to-date key to all Kerivoula species occurring in China.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.1141.96883

Authors: Dianwei Li, Jiahui Liu, Chengzhi Zhang, Yuwei Cao, Ming Gao, Zhimin Jin, Hongjia Shan, Hongwei Ni

Abstract: To discover the differences in hoarding strategies of rodents for different seeds in different habitats, we labelled and released three different types of seeds, including Pinus koraiensis, Corylus mandshurica, and Quercus mongolica, in temperate forests of northeastern China and investigated the fate of seeds in four different habitats that included a broad-leaved forest, mixed-forest edge, mixed forest, and artificial larch forest. Our research showed that the hoarding strategy of rodents was found to vary substantially in different habitats. The survival curves of seeds from different habitats showed the same trend, but the rates of consumption in different habitats varied. More than 50% of the seeds in the four habitats were consumed by the tenth day. It took 20 days to consume more than 70% of the seeds. The rate of consumption of P. koraiensis seeds reached 96.70%; 99.09% of the C. mandshurica seeds were consumed, and 93.07% of the Q. mongolica seeds were consumed. The seeds were consumed most quickly in the artificial larch forest. In general, most of the early seeds were quickly devoured. After day 20, the consumption gradually decreased. Rodents found the seeds in the artificial larch forest in a shorter average time than those in the other types of forests. The average earliest discovery time was 1.4 ± 0.9 d (1–3 d). The average earliest discovery time in all the other three habitats exceeded 7 d. The median removal times (MRT) was distributed around the seeds at 14.24 ± 10.53 d (1–60 d). There were significant differences in the MRT among different habitats. It was shortest in the artificial larch forest at 7.67 ± 6.80 d (1–28 d). In contrast, the MRT in the broad-leaved forest was the longest at 17.52 ± 12.91 d (4–60 d). There were significant differences in the MRT between the artificial larch forest and the other habitats. There was less predation of the three types of seeds at the mixed-forest edge, and the most seeds were dispersed. The rates of predation of the P. koraiensis, C. mandshurica, and Q. mongolica seeds were 28.33%, 15.83%, and 44.0%, and 59.17%, 84.17%, and 48.0% of the seeds were dispersed, respectively. The average dispersal distances of all the seeds were less than 6 m, and the longest distance recorded was 18.66 m. The dispersal distances and burial depths differed significantly among the four types of habitats. The distance of seed dispersal was primarily distributed in 1–6 m.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.1137.94217

Authors: Jonathan A. Nations, Thomas C. Giarla, Muhd Amsyari Morni, Julius William Dee, Mark T. Swanson, Anna E. Hiller, Faisal Ali Anwarali Khan, Jacob A. Esselstyn

Abstract: Although Borneo has received more attention from biologists than most other islands in the Malay Archipelago, many questions regarding the systematic relationships of Bornean mammals remain. Using next-generation sequencing technology, we obtained mitochondrial DNA sequences from the holotype of Suncus ater, the only known specimen of this shrew. Several shrews collected recently in Sarawak are closely aligned, both morphologically and mitochondrially, with the holotype of S. ater. Phylogenetic analyses of mitochondrial sequences indicate that the S. ater holotype and new Sarawak specimens do not belong to the genus Suncus, but instead are most closely related to Palawanosorex muscorum. Until now Palawanosorex has been known only from the neighboring Philippine island of Palawan. Additional sequences from nuclear ultra-conserved elements from the new Sarawak specimens strongly support a sister relationship to P. muscorum. We therefore transfer ater to Palawanosorex. The new specimens demonstrate that P. ater is more widespread in northern Borneo than previously recorded. Continued sampling of Bornean mammal diversity and reexamination of type material are critical in understanding the evolutionary history of the biologically rich Malay Archipelago.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.1134.89587

Authors: Leonardo Campana, Letícia Rosário Cruz, Roberta Paresque, Valéria Fagundes

Abstract: Glans penis morphology has been used as a powerful tool in mammal taxonomy to differentiate cryptic species. Neotropical rodent species Akodon cursor and A. montensis are cryptic, and interspecific hybrids are like their parental species. We investigated non-metric and metric phallic characters aiming to differentiate A. cursor from A. montensis. We also evaluated the parental species’ influence of the phallic characters on hybrids. We analysed 96 male adults—56 A. cursor, 27 A. montensis, and 13 hybrids, subgrouping species by locality and hybrids by parental species (paternal vs maternal). We verified that A. cursor and A. montensis are distinguishable by penile-shape morphology: A. cursor has an elongated penile form with a flare in the distal portion and A. montensis has a barrel-shaped form. Also, dark spots in ventral view, if present in A. montensis, distinguish A. montensis from A. cursor. Although the non-metric characters differentiate the species, they do not distinguish the subgroups of A. cursor, A. montensis, and hybrids. The metric phallic characters indicated a significant difference between species and hybrids. These characters also differentiate the population groups of A. cursor. However, A. montensis subgroups and hybrids subgroups did not present a significant difference. This study shows the importance of penis morphology in the taxonomy of the cryptic rodent species A. cursor and A. montensis, representing a powerful tool to discriminate male specimens in mammal collections without karyotyping or sequencing, even though the specimens occurred in sympatric areas. Since most taxidermy protocols do not preserve the penis in mammal preparations, liquid preservation of some specimens or the removal of the penis before taxidermy for liquid preservation could be beneficial. We also recommend the organisation in museum collections of a penis bank for the A. cursor species group (or even all rodent species) to avoid losing this important information for species identification.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.1123.86960

Authors: Masahiro A. Iwasa, Yukibumi Kaneko, Yoshiyuki Kimura

Abstract: We evaluated the molars in Anderson’s red-backed vole (n = 114) from the Kii Peninsula of Honshu, Japan. Two of the specimens are considered extremely old aged based on their dimensions and on the loss of alveolar capsules of M2, and a third one is also old based on its strongly worn left M3 and M1. Of the former two individuals, one showed an incipient closure of re-entrant angles at its basal end, as estimated from the difference between the occlusal patterns of the occlusal and basal surfaces of the left M2. The latter individual also showed a complete closure of the basal end in the left M3. These patterns differ from incipient roots observed in other vole taxa but were similar to a previous example of incipient roots in Anderson’s red-backed vole. Therefore, we suggest that molar roots in this species form at an extremely late age or by strong wear. Root formation in molars is considered an important diagnostic character, as Eothenomys molars lack roots, while Craseomys molars develop roots at a late age. However, this dental character may be particularly difficult to assess in voles under natural conditions. Considering previous phylogenetic findings based on molecular analyses, Craseomys is the most appropriate genus for Anderson’s and other Asiatic red-backed voles.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.1122.94672

Authors: Lee Harding

Abstract: As a result of copy-editing cut-and-past errors, incorrect authorities were given in two cases.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.1122.76486

Authors: Mitsuko Hiruma, Kahoko Tochigi, Ryosuke Kishimoto, Misako Kuroe, Bruna Elisa Trentin, Shinsuke Koike

Abstract: The winter diets of northern ungulates are sensitive to changes in environmental conditions and ungulate population densities. We hypothesized that the winter diets of smaller browser ungulates might not readily change in response to fluctuating environmental conditions. We analyzed long-term trends in the winter diet of the Japanese serow (Capricornis crispus) by analyzing rumen contents of 532 individuals over a span of 16 years among five populations along with changes in the population densities of sika deer (Cervus nippon) in Nagano Prefecture, central Japan. The winter diet composition of the serow was stable over the long term despite the increase in deer population density. The little-flexible nature of the serow diet may explain the long-term stability in the winter diets.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.1119.80233

Authors: Lee E. Harding

Abstract: Advancements in molecular and phylogenetic analysis have revealed the need for greater taxonomic resolution since Rangifer (Reindeer and caribou: Cervidae) was last revised in 1961. Recent literature shows that many of the subspecies and several species synonymised out of existence are, in fact, valid, some names have been misapplied, and new subspecies-level clades are in need of description. This paper reviews available names for recently defined ecotypes of reindeer and caribou in compliance with ICZN rules for zoological nomenclature.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.1116.84577

Authors: Andrea Rezić, Toni Safner, Laura Iacolina, Elena Bužan, Nikica Šprem

Abstract: The translocation of wild animal species became a common practice worldwide to re-establish local populations threatened with extinction. Archaeological data confirm that chamois once lived in the Biokovo Mountain but, prior to their reintroduction in the 1960s, there was no written evidence of their recent existence in the area. The population was reintroduced in the period 1964–1969, when 48 individuals of Balkan chamois from the neighbouring mountains in Bosnia and Herzegovina were released. The main objective of this study was to determine the accuracy of the existing historical data on the origin of the Balkan chamois population from the Biokovo Mountain and to assess the genetic diversity and population structure of the source and translocated populations 56 years after reintroduction. Sixteen microsatellite loci were used to analyse the genetic structure of three source chamois populations from Prenj, Čvrsnica and Čabulja Mountains and from Biokovo Mountain. Both STRUCTURE and GENELAND analyses showed a clear separation of the reintroduced population on Biokovo from Prenj’s chamois and considerable genetic similarity between the Biokovo population and the Čvrsnica-Čabulja population. This suggests that the current genetic composition of the Biokovo population does not derive exclusively from Prenj, as suggested by the available literature and personal interviews, but also from Čvrsnica and Čabulja. GENELAND analysis recognised the Balkan chamois from Prenj as a separate cluster, distinct from the populations of Čvrsnica and Čabulja. Our results thus highlight the need to implement genetic monitoring of both reintroduced and source populations of endangered Balkan chamois to inform sustainable management and conservation strategies in order to maximise the chances of population persistence.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.1105.85055

Authors: Roberto Leonan M. Novaes, Don E. Wilson, Ricardo Moratelli

Abstract: Myotis comprises a diverse group of vespertilionid bats with worldwide distribution. Neotropical Myotis have an accentuated phenotypic conservatism, which makes species delimitation and identification difficult, hindering our understanding of the diversity, distribution, and phylogenetic relationships of taxa. To encourage new systematic reviews of the genus, a catalogue of the primary types and names is presented, current and in synonymy, for Neotropical Myotis. Currently 33 valid species (and three subspecies) are recognized, and their primary types are deposited in 12 scientific collections in the USA (30 types), Brazil (two types), England (two types), and France (one type). The names of 29 Neotropical Myotis species currently in synonymy were found. However, it is possible that some synonyms represent independent evolutionary lineages, considering recent results provided by taxonomic revisions.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.1083.78233

Authors: Zhongzheng Chen, Tingli Hu, Xiaoxin Pei, Guangdao Yang, Fan Yong, Zhen Xu, Weiying Qu, Kenneth O. Onditi, Baowei Zhang

Abstract: Asiatic shrews of the genus Chodsigoa (Soricidae, Eulipotyphla) currently comprise nine species, mostly occurring in southwest China. From May 2017 to August 2020, 11 specimens of Chodsigoa were collected from the Dabie Mountains in Anhui Province, eastern China. Their morphology was compared with other species within the genus and one mitochondrial (cytochrome b) and two nuclear (apolipoprotein B and breast cancer 1) genes were sequenced to estimate the phylogenetic relationships of these specimens. Based on morphological and molecular evidence, these specimens are recognized as a distinct species, Chodsigoa dabieshanensis sp. nov., which is formally described here. Morphologically, the new species is most similar to Chodsigoa hypsibia, but it is distinguishable from all known congeners by the combination of dark brownish pelage, small size, and relatively short tail. Phylogenetic analyses revealed that C. dabieshanensis sp. nov. forms a phylogenetic lineage sister to the clade containing C. parva + C. hypsibia. The-Kimura 2-parameter genetic distances of the cytochrome b (CYT B) gene between the new species and other nominal Chodsigoa species ranged between 8.6 and 17.6%. The new species is distributed at elevations from 750 to 1250 m in the Dabie Mountains and is geographically distant from other species in the genus.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.1076.73262

Authors: Millawati Gani, Jeffrine J. Rovie-Ryan, Frankie Thomas Sitam, Noor Azleen Mohd Kulaimi, Chew Cheah Zheng, Aida Nur Atiqah, Nur Maisarah Abd Rahim, Ahmad Azhar Mohammed

Abstract: Conservation translocation and reintroduction for the purpose of repopulating and reinforcing extirpated or depleted populations has been recognised as an important conservation tool, particularly for gibbon conservation in the immediate future. Feasibility assessments involving multiple factors, including taxonomic and genetic assessment of rescued and captive gibbons, are imperative prior to translocation and reintroduction programmes. In this study, we attempt to determine the subspecies and origin of captive Hylobates lar, White-handed gibbons, from Peninsular Malaysia to assist in future translocation and reintroduction programmes. A total of 12 captive and rescued H. lar samples were analysed using the control region segment of mitochondrial DNA. Sequence analyses and phylogenetic trees constructed using neighbour-joining, maximum likelihood, Bayesian inference, and network methods congruently differentiate all 12 captive individuals used in this study from other H. lar subspecies suggesting that these individuals belong to the H. lar lar subspecies. In addition, two populations of H. l. lar were observed: (1) a southern population consisting of all 12 individuals from Peninsular Malaysia, and (2) a possible northern population represented by three individuals (from previous studies), which might have originated from the region between the Isthmus of Kra, Surat Thani-Krabi depression, and Kangar-Pattani. Our findings suggest that the complete control region segment can be used to determine the subspecies and origin of captive H. lar.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.1059.63581

Authors: Jun Qiu, Cang Ma, Ying-Hui Jia, Jin-Zhao Wang, Shou-Kai Cao, Fang-Fang Li

Abstract: Plateau pikas (Ochotona curzoniae) are regarded as one of the main causes of the degradation of alpine meadows in the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau (QTP). The population density of plateau pikas is directly related to the degree of grassland damage. In this study, field observation was conducted for one week in the southeastern QTP in August 2019. A random encounter model (REM) was used to estimate the population density of plateau pikas from photographs and videos, and the frequencies of different behaviors were calculated. In addition, the effects of water-source distance and terrain on the distribution of plateau pikas and the frequencies of different pika behaviors under different population densities were explored. The observations and knowledge derived from this study provide a reference for the population control of plateau pikas.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.1028.60955

Authors: Darwin M. Morales-Martínez, Hugo F. López-Arévalo, Mario Vargas-Ramírez

Abstract: Thirteen species of Neotropical bats of the genus Micronycteris are currently recognized and are allocated to four subgenera Leuconycteris, Micronycteris, Schizonycteris, and Xenonectes. Despite that, the presence of polyphyletic clades in molecular phylogenies suggests that its diversity is underestimated. Additionally, the incorrect identification of some genetic sequences, the incorrect assignation of available valid names, and restricted geographic sampling have biased the identification of independently evolutionary lineages within Micronycteris. In this study, several unknown genealogical lineages in the genus are identified and an updated phylogenetic hypothesis is proposed using mitochondrial and nuclear DNA fragments. The phylogenetic analyses congruently showed all individuals in four well-supported subgenera, but M. schmidtorum was revealed as the sister taxon of M. brosseti in the subgenus Leuconycteris. Twenty-seven different genealogical lineages were identified. These included eight confirmed species: M. brosseti, M. buriri, M. giovanniae, M. matses, M. schmidtorum, M. simmonsae, M. tresamici, and M. yatesi. Nineteen either allopatric or parapatric candidate species were also confirmed, two within the M. hirsuta complex, nine within the M. megalotis complex, seven within the M. minuta complex, and one corresponding to “M. sp.”. These results revealed an extensive undescribed diversity within each subgenus of Micronycteris. Nevertheless, the evolutionary processes associated with the specific radiations are poorly understood. This is just the beginning of the assessment of the taxonomy and systematics of Micronycteris, which requires additional integrative taxonomical approaches for its advance.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.1015.59248

Authors: Roberto Leonan M. Novaes, Vinícius C. Cláudio, Roxanne J. Larsen, Don E. Wilson, Marcelo Weksler, Ricardo Moratelli

Abstract: Myotis nesopolus currently comprises two subspecies. The nominate subspecies (M. n. nesopolus) occurs on the Caribbean islands of Curaçao and Bonaire, Netherlands Antilles, whereas M. n. larensis is known from mainland South America in northeastern Colombia and northwestern Venezuela. Our Maximum Likelihood phylogenetic analyses of cytochrome-b gene sequences recovered M. nesopolus as a paraphyletic group, with M. n. nesopolus and M. n. larensis as non-sister lineages. The haplotype network indicates that these two subspecies do not share any haplotypes and are in different evolutionary trajectories. Additionally, these two subspecies can be distinguished on the basis of qualitative and quantitative morphological traits. This pattern supports the recognition of M. nesopolus and M. larensis as full species. Our results also reveal that the assemblage of Caribbean Myotis do not form a monophyletic group. Caribbean species are phylogenetically close to mainland species from northern South America and Central America, suggesting that colonization of Caribbean islands happened multiple times.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.1012.59035

Authors: Wenjuan Shan, Mayinur Tursun, Shiyu Zhou, Yucong Zhang, Huiying Dai

Abstract: Lepus yarkandensis is a national second-class protected animal endemic to China and distributed only in the hot and arid Tarim Basin in Xinjiang. We sequenced and described the complete mitogenome of L. yarkandensis to analyze its characteristics and phylogeny. The species’ DNA is a 17,047 bp circular molecule that includes 13 protein-coding genes (PCGs), two rRNA genes, 22 tRNA genes, and one control region. The overall base composition was as follows: A, 31.50%; T, 29.40%; G, 13.30% and C, 25.80%, with a high A+T bias of 60.9%. In the PCGs, ND6 had deviation ranges for AT skew (–0.303) and GC skew (0.636). The Ka/Ks values of ND1 (1.067) and ND6 (1.352) genes were >1, indicating positive selection, which might play an important role in the adaptation of L. yarkandensis to arid and hot environments. The conserved sequence block, the central conserved domain, and the extended termination-associated sequences of the control region and their features were identified and described. The phylogenetic tree based on the complete mitogenome showed that L. yarkandensis was closely related to the sympatric Lepus tibetanus pamirensis. These novel datasets of L. yarkandensis can supply basic data for phylogenetic studies of Lepus spp., apart from providing essential and important resource for further genetic research and the protection of this species.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.1004.57359

Authors: Alexey V. Andreychev, Vyacheslav A. Kuznetsov

Abstract: A list of 40 species is presented of the rodents and insectivores collected during a 15-year period from the Republic of Mordovia. The dataset contains more than 24,000 records of rodent and insectivore species from 23 districts, including Saransk. A major part of the data set was obtained during expedition research and at the biological station. The work is based on the materials of our surveys of rodents and insectivorous mammals conducted in Mordovia using both trap lines and pitfall arrays using traditional methods.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.992.57028

Authors: Dianwei Li, Jingwei Hao, Xu Yao, Yang Liu, Ting Peng, Zhimin Jin, Fanxing Meng

Abstract: Apodemus peninsulae, a dominant rodent species in temperature forests of northeastern China, is a model animal to explore the ecological functions of reciprocal coevolution of animals and plants. From August to October 2016, 24 infra-red cameras were installed to study the feeding behavior and activity patterns of A. peninsulae in its natural environment. By analyzing 5618 video records, we found that feeding behavior, followed by motor and sentinel behaviors, was their main activity. In the behavior spectra, motor behavior (creep, walk, and skip), feeding behavior (forage, feeding, transport, hoarding, and clean), and sentinel behavior (alert, flee, banishment, and coexistence) accounted for 57.96%, 40.36%, and 1.68% of their behavior, respectively. The peak of feeding behavior occurred between 18:00 and 23:00, and feeding behavior frequency, duration, and activity rhythms differ among August to October. Furthermore, activity was the greatest after sunset and before sunrise, indicating a nocturnal lifestyle; however, from August to October, the start time of the activity was earlier, and the end time was later than usual. On average, mice spent 21.6 ± 11.6 times/night feeding, with a duration of 63.58 ± 98.36 s; while they spent less time in foraging, 39.05 ± 51.63 s. We found a significant difference in feeding and foraging frequency, with mice spending on average 10.84 ± 9.85 times/night and 9.23 ± 11.17 times/night, respectively. Our results show that feeding and foraging behavior is also influenced by light intensity, suggesting a preference for crepuscular periods of the day. Infra-red cameras are very useful in detecting activity patterns of animals that are not easily observable; these cameras are able to capture a large amount of valuable information for research into ecological functions.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.973.53185

Authors: Noel Anselmo Rivas-Camo, Paulina Abigail Sabido-Villanueva, Carlos Ricardo Peralta-Muñoz, Rodrigo A. Medellin

Abstract: The first record of Phyllops falcatus (Gray, 1839) in Mexico is documented from the island of Cozumel, Quintana Roo. This species is present in the Antilles, distributed in all the Cuban archipelago, Cayman Islands, and Hispaniola. It is likely that a hurricane moved these bats from Cuba to Cozumel. The Cozumel record extends the distribution more than 200 km west. Two new records from Cozumel of the bats Lasiurus ega and Molossus alvarezi are also provided.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.959.53426

Authors: Yaoyao Li, Yiqiao Li, Haotian Li, Jing Wang, Xiaoxiao Rong, Yuchun Li

Abstract: Niviventer confucianus sacer Thomas, 1908, which has been regarded as a subspecies of N. confucianus, was found to be a distinct species from N. confucianus based on molecular, karyotyping, and morphological characteristics in this study. Niviventer c. sacer was found to belong to a distinct phylogenetic clade in phylogenetic tree constructed using the mitochondrial gene Cytb, it clustered with N. bukit (Bonhote, 1903) from Vietnam and N. confucianus (Milne-Edwards, 1871) from Yunnan, but showed a distant relationship with N. confucianus from adjacent areas. The genetic distance between N. c. sacer and N. confucianus was more than 5.8%, reaching the level of interspecific differentiation. The species delimitation indicates that N. c. sacer is a monophyletic group. The karyotype of N. c. sacer (FN = 55, 8m+4st+32t+X(sm)Y(t)) differed from that of N. confucianus (FN = 59, 6m+4sm+2st+32t+X(sm)Y(t)). In terms of morphological features, the length of incisive foramen (LIF) and length of auditory bulla (LAB) of N. c. sacer is significantly larger than that of N. confucianus and N. bukit (P < 0.05) and the proportion of white tail tip to total tail length is significantly longer at N. c. sacer (≥ 1/3) than that at N. confucianus (≤ 1/3). Therefore, integrated analysis confirmed that N. c. sacer is a distinct species of genus Niviventer rather than a subspecies of N. confucianus or N. bukit, namely N. sacer, which is only distributed in Shandong.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.958.50300

Authors: Analorena Cifuentes-Rincón, Jorge Alfonso Morales-Donoso, Eluzai Dinai Pinto Sandoval, Iara Maluf Tomazella, Aline Meira Bonfim Mantellatto, Benoit de Thoisy, José Maurício Barbanti Duarte

Abstract: Mazama americana (red brocket deer) is the genus-type species (first species described for this genus) and the basis for the identity of other Mazama species. Mazama americana is one of the most abundant and widely distributed deer species in the neotropical forest. However, recent studies suggest that this taxon belongs to a species complex. Our goal was to collect an animal at the type locality (topotype) in French Guiana with the aim of characterizing the morphological (biometric, craniometric), cytogenetic (Giemsa, C-banding, G-banding and NOR) and molecular (mitochondrial DNA) features. The comparisons showed that the collected specimen was very similar morphologically to specimens from other South American populations, but it was cytogenetically and molecularly very different from any of the cytotypes already described for this species, corroborating the existence of a complex of cryptic species. The data suggest that the M. americana topotype is a different species from all the cytotypes already described in the literature and which occupy the southern region of the Amazon River. The characterization and designation of the M. americana neotype is the first step toward a taxonomic reorganization of the genus Mazama, with the potential identification of new species.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.948.51275

Authors: Nikolay N. Tovpinets, Igor L. Evstafiev, Valeriy V. Stakheev, Andrey A. Lissovsky

Abstract: A dataset comprising 6806 records is presented of 17 (of total 24) rodent and insectivore species from the Crimean Peninsula collected during a 35-year period. All records are stored in the Public Mammal Database (Mammals of Russia; http://rusmam.ru/). The density of occurrence points allows visual evaluation of species distribution, even on large-scale maps. Each record contains the species name, locality description, and geographic coordinates, coordinate accuracy, date and author of the record, data source, and the method of species identification.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.948.50468

Authors: Luis Felipe S. P. Mayorga, Ralph E. T. Vanstreels, Renata C. C. Bhering, Natália Mamede, Luiz M. B. Costa, Flavia C. F. Pinheiro, Luciano W. D. Reis, Alessandro Trazzi, Wilson Luiz Chevitarese Meirelles, Alan Marques Ribeiro, Salvatore Siciliano

Abstract: Espírito Santo state is located on the eastern margin of Brazil, in a transitional tropical-subtropical area (18°S–21°S) dominated by oligotrophic waters. With the exception of humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae), the cetacean community of Espírito Santo has been understudied. In addition to the chronic impacts from fisheries, marine pollution, urban development, and coastal habitat degradation, in November 2015 the cetacean communities of Espírito Santo were challenged by the greatest environmental disaster in Brazil’s history. The Mariana dam disaster caused 60 million cubic meters of mining waste to be washed into the Doce River, which ultimately flowed to the coastal waters of Espírito Santo, with a high concentration of heavy metals. This study reviews and updates information on cetacean strandings in the state of Espírito Santo (excluding humpback whales) prior to this disaster. From 1975 to September 2015, there were 461 recorded cetacean strandings, representing 20 species. An average 1.18 strandings per 100 km per month were recorded since a state-wide daily beach survey program was implemented in October 2010, contrasting with the 0.14 strandings per 100 km per month in previous years. Six species comprised the majority (94.7%) of stranding events: Guiana dolphin (Sotalia guianensis), Franciscana (Pontoporia blainvillei), rough-toothed dolphin (Steno bredanensis), bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus), sperm whale (Physeter macrocephalus), and melon-headed whale (Peponocephala electra). Oceanic cetaceans stranded most frequently on the southern portion of Espírito Santo, where the continental platform is narrower, whereas the strandings of coastal cetaceans such as Guiana dolphins and Franciscanas were concentrated near estuaries, especially the Doce River. This is particularly concerning in face of the Mariana dam disaster, which drastically altered the estuarine and coastal environment associated with the Doce River.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.939.31764

Authors: Guogang Li, Ye Htet Lwin, Bin Yang, Tao Qin, Phouthong Phothisath, Kyaw-Win Maung, Rui-Chang Quan, Song Li

Abstract: The flying squirrel genus Biswamoyopterus (Rodentia: Sciuridae: Pteromyini) was once considered to contain three species, Biswamoyopterus biswasi from northeastern India, B. laoensis from central Laos and B. gaoligongensis from southwest China, all identified from morphological characteristics of one or two specimens. However, based on similar morphological characteristics of two samples of the genus Biswamoyopterus collected recently from northern Laos and northern Myanmar, and the small genetic distances on mitochondrial DNA and nuclear DNA between them, the results strongly support these two samples as representatives of the same species. The phylogenetic analyses strongly support Biswamoyopterus as an independent genus of Pteromyini, as a sister group to Aeromys. Biswamoyopterus biswasi is distributed in the northern Indo-China peninsula, where it is exposed to a series of threats, such as intense hunting activity, illegal trade, and rapid habitat loss; this should warrant its classification as critically endangered according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List criteria. Here, the molecular data for genus Biswamoyopterus and two new specimen records from northern Laos and northern Myanmar are presented.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.929.50240

Authors: Bruce D. Patterson, Paul W. Webala, Tyrone H. Lavery, Bernard R. Agwanda, Steven M. Goodman, Julian C. Kerbis Peterhans, Terrence C. Demos

Abstract: The Old World leaf-nosed bats (Hipposideridae) are aerial and gleaning insectivores that occur throughout the Paleotropics. Both their taxonomic and phylogenetic histories are confused. Until recently, the family included genera now allocated to the Rhinonycteridae and was recognized as a subfamily of Rhinolophidae. Evidence that Hipposideridae diverged from both Rhinolophidae and Rhinonycteridae in the Eocene confirmed their family rank, but their intrafamilial relationships remain poorly resolved. We examined genetic variation in the Afrotropical hipposiderids Doryrhina, Hipposideros, and Macronycteris using relatively dense taxon-sampling throughout East Africa and neighboring regions. Variation in both mitochondrial (cyt-b) and four nuclear intron sequences (ACOX2, COPS, ROGDI, STAT5) were analyzed using both maximum likelihood and Bayesian inference methods. We used intron sequences and the lineage delimitation method BPP—a multilocus, multi-species coalescent approach—on supported mitochondrial clades to identify those acting as independent evolutionary lineages. The program StarBEAST was used on the intron sequences to produce a species tree of the sampled Afrotropical hipposiderids. All genetic analyses strongly support generic monophyly, with Doryrhina and Macronycteris as Afrotropical sister genera distinct from a Paleotropical Hipposideros; mitochondrial analyses interpose the genera Aselliscus, Coelops, and Asellia between these clades. Mitochondrial analyses also suggest at least two separate colonizations of Africa by Asian groups of Hipposideros, but the actual number and direction of faunal interchanges will hinge on placement of the unsampled African-Arabian species H. megalotis. Mitochondrial sequences further identify a large number of geographically structured clades within species of all three genera. However, in sharp contrast to this pattern, the four nuclear introns fail to distinguish many of these groups and their geographic structuring disappears. Various distinctive mitochondrial clades are consolidated in the intron-based gene trees and delimitation analyses, calling into question their evolutionary independence or else indicating their very recent divergence. At the same time, there is now compelling genetic evidence in both mitochondrial and nuclear sequences for several additional unnamed species among the Afrotropical Hipposideros. Conflicting appraisals of differentiation among the Afrotropical hipposiderids based on mitochondrial and nuclear loci must be adjudicated by large-scale integrative analyses of echolocation calls, quantitative morphology, and geometric morphometrics. Integrative analyses will also help to resolve the challenging taxonomic issues posed by the diversification of the many lineages associated with H. caffer and H. ruber.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.923.39665

Authors: Xin He, Walter H. Hsu, Rong Hou, Ying Yao, Qin Xu, Dandan Jiang, Longqiong Wang, Hairui Wang

Abstract: The giant panda (Ailuropoda melanoleuca) is one of the world’s most endangered mammals and remains threatened as a result of intense environmental and anthropogenic pressure. The transformation and specialization of the giant panda’s diet into a herbivorous diet have resulted in unique adaptabilities in many aspects of their biology, physiology and behavior. However, little is known about their adaptability at the molecular level. Through comparative analysis of the giant panda’s genome with those of nine other mammalian species, we found some genetic characteristics of the giant panda that can be associated with adaptive changes for effective digestion of plant material. We also found that giant pandas have similar genetic characteristics to carnivores in terms of olfactory perception but have similar genetic characteristics to herbivores in terms of immunity and hydrolytic enzyme activity. Through the analysis of gene family expansion, 3752 gene families were found, which were enriched in functions such as digestion. A total of 93 genes under positive selection were screened out and gene enrichment identified these genes for the following processes: negative regulation of cellular metabolic process, negative regulation of nitrogen compound metabolic process, negative regulation of macromolecule metabolic process and negative regulation of metabolic process. Combined with the KEGG pathway, it was found that genes such as CREB3L1, CYP450 2S1, HSD11B2, LRPAP1 play a key role in digestion. These genes may have played a key role in the pandas’ adaptation to its bamboo diet.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.918.48786

Authors: Burton K. Lim, Livia O. Loureiro, Guilherme S.T. Garbino

Abstract: Since the last systematic review of Chiroderma (big-eyed bats) more than two decades ago, we report on biodiversity surveys that expand the distribution and species diversity of this Neotropical genus. The Caribbean endemic species Chiroderma improvisum is documented for the first time from Nevis in the northern Lesser Antilles. A broader geographic sampling for a molecular analysis identifies a paraphyletic relationship in Chiroderma trinitatum with respect to Chiroderma doriae. Cis-Andean populations of C. trinitatum are most closely related to the morphologically distinctive and allopatrically distributed C. doriae in the Cerrado and Atlantic Forest of Brazil and Paraguay. The sister taxon to this grouping includes trans-Andean populations of C. trinitatum, which we recommend to elevate to species status as C. gorgasi. This is an example of a cryptic species because C. gorgasi was previously considered morphologically similar to C. trinitatum, but more detailed examination revealed that it lacks a posterolabial accessory cusp on the lower second premolar and has a narrower breadth of the braincase. We provide an amended description of Chiroderma gorgasi.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.917.39449

Authors: Stoyan Stoyanov

Abstract: Golden jackal (Canis aureus) expansion in the last decades has triggered research interest in Europe. However, jackal phylogeny and taxonomy are still controversial. Morphometric studies in Europe found differences between Dalmatian and the other European jackals. Recent genetic studies revealed that African and Eurasian golden jackals are distinct species. Moreover, large Canis aureus lupaster may be a cryptic subspecies of the African golden jackal. Although genetic studies suggest changes in Canis aureus taxonomy, morphological and morphometric studies are still needed. The present study proposes the first comprehensive analysis on a wide scale of golden jackal skull morphometry. Extensive morphometric data of jackal skulls from Europe (including a very large Bulgarian sample), Asia Minor, and North Africa were analysed, by applying recently developed statistical tools, to address the following questions: (i) is there geographic variation in skull size and shape among populations from Europe, Anatolia and the Caucasus?, (ii) is the jackal population from the Dalmatian coast different?, and (iii) is there a clear distinction between the Eurasian golden jackal (Canis aureus) and the African wolf (Canis lupaster sensu lato), and among populations of African wolves as well? Principal component analysis and linear discriminant analysis were applied on the standardized and log-transformed ratios of the original measurements to clearly separate specimens by shape and size. The results suggest that jackals from Europe, Anatolia and the Caucasus belong to one subspecies: Canis aureus moreotica (I. Geoffroy Saint-Hilaire, 1835), despite the differences in shape of Dalmatian specimens. The present study confirmed morphometrically that all jackals included so far in the taxon Canis aureus sensu lato may represent three taxa and supports the hypothesis that at least two different taxa (species?) of Canis occur in North Africa, indicating the need for further genetic, morphological, behavioural and ecological research to resolve the taxonomic uncertainty. The results are consistent with recent genetic and morphological studies and give further insights on golden jackal taxonomy. Understanding the species phylogeny and taxonomy is crucial for the conservation and management of the expanding golden jackal population in Europe.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.915.46995

Authors: Mateo Basantes, Nicolás Tinoco, Paúl M. Velazco, Melinda J. Hofmann, Miguel E. Rodríguez-Posada, M. Alejandra Camacho

Abstract: The Stripe-headed Round-eared bat, Tonatia saurophila, includes three subspecies: Tonatia saurophila saurophila (known only from subfossil records in Jamaica), Tonatia saurophila bakeri (distributed from southeastern Mexico to northern Colombia, Venezuela west and north of the Cordillera de Mérida, and northwestern Ecuador), and Tonatia saurophila maresi (distributed in Venezuela east and south of the Cordillera de Mérida, the Guianas, Trinidad and Tobago, northeastern Brazil, and along the upper Amazon basin in Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, and Bolivia). The last two subspecies are an attractive example to test predictions about the historical role of the Andes in mammalian diversification. Based on morphological descriptions, morphometric analyses, and phylogenetic reconstruction using the mitochondrial gene Cyt-b and the nuclear exon RAG2, this study evaluates the intraspecific relationships within Tonatia saurophila and the taxonomic status of the taxon. The three subspecies of T. saurophila are recognizable as full species: Tonatia bakeri, Tonatia maresi, and Tonatia saurophila. The latter is restricted to its type locality and possibly is extinct. Tonatia bakeri, in addition to being larger than T. maresi, is morphologically distinguishable by possessing an acute apex at the posterior edge of the skull, a well-developed clinoid process, and relatively robust mandibular condyles, and by lacking a diastema between the canine and the first lower premolar. The genetic distance between T. bakeri and T. maresi is 7.65%.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.888.37982

Authors: Anna A. Bannikova, Paulina D. Jenkins, Evgeniya N. Solovyeva, Svetlana V. Pavlova, Tatiana B. Demidova, Sergey A. Simanovsky, Boris I. Sheftel, Vladimir S. Lebedev, Yun Fang, Love Dalen, Alexei V. Abramov

Abstract: The first genetic study of the holotype of the Gansu short-tailed shrew, Blarinella griselda Thomas, 1912, is presented. The mitochondrial analysis demonstrated that the type specimen of B. griselda is close to several recently collected specimens from southern Gansu, northern Sichuan and Shaanxi, which are highly distinct from the two species of Asiatic short-tailed shrews of southern Sichuan, Yunnan, and Vietnam, B. quadraticauda and B. wardi. Our analysis of four nuclear genes supported the placement of B. griselda as sister to B. quadraticauda / B. wardi, with the level of divergence between these two clades corresponding to that among genera of Soricinae. A new generic name, Parablarinella, is proposed for the Gansu short-tailed shrew. Karyotypes of Parablarinella griselda (2n = 49, NFa = 50) and B. quadraticauda (2n = 49, NFa = 62) from southern Gansu are described. The tribal affinities of Blarinellini and Blarinini are discussed.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.869.33858

Authors: Yaoyao Li, Haotian Li, Masaharu Motokawa, Yi Wu, Masashi Harada, Huimei Sun, Xinmin Mo, Jing Wang, Yuchun Li

Abstract: The Taiwanese gray shrew (Crocidura tanakae) and Asian gray shrew (C. attenuata) are so similar in size and morphology that the taxonomic status of the former has changed several times since its description; C. tanakae has also been regarded as an endemic species of Taiwan Island. In recent years, molecular identification has led to several reports of C. tanakae being distributed in the mainland of China. In this study, we determine the geographical distribution of C. attenuata and C. tanakae based on more than one hundred specimens collected during 2000 to 2018 over a wide area covering the traditional ranges of the two species in the mainland of China, and show a substantial revision of their distributions. Among 110 individuals, 33 C. attenuata and 77 C. tanakae were identified by Cytb gene and morphologies. Our results show, (1) C. attenuata and C. tanakae are distributed sympatrically in the mainland of China; (2) contrary to the previous reports, the distribution range of C. attenuata is restricted and much smaller than that of C. tanakae in the mainland of China; (3) Hainan Island, like Taiwan Island, is inhabited by C. tanakae only according to the present data.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.864.33678

Authors: Quan Li, Xue-You Li, Stephen M. Jackson, Fei Li, Ming Jiang, Wei Zhao, Wen-Yu Song, Xue-Long Jiang

Abstract: The flying squirrels of the tribe Pteromyini (Family Sciuridae) currently include 15 genera of which the genus Biswamoyopterus comprises two recognized species, B. biswasi Saha, 1981 and B. laoensis Sanamxay et al., 2013. These two species were each described from only one specimen that are separated from each other by 1,250 kilometres in southern Asia, where they occur in northeast India and central Lao PDR respectively. In 2017 and 2018, two specimens of Biswamoyopterus were discovered from Mount Gaoligong, west Yunnan province, southwest China (between the type locality of the two recognized species). This study aimed to evaluate the taxonomic status of these two newly acquired specimens of Biswamoyopterus by comparing their morphology with the two described species of the genus. The results of this study showed that the specimens from Yunnan province (China) differed from both B. laoensis and B. biswasi in both pelage colour and craniology, and should be recognised as a distinct species, B. gaoligongensis sp. nov., which is formally described here. This study contributes to the understanding of the flying squirrels of southern Asia and identifies an additional species that appears to be endemic to southwest China; however, more research is required to provide details of its ecology, distribution, and conservation status.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.787.26538

Authors: Amanda Cristiny da Silva Lima, Fabio Henrique Souza Cardoso, Samira Brito Mendes, Elmary Costa Fraga, Maria Claudene Barros

Abstract: Niceforo’s big-eared bat, Trinycteris nicefori (Sanborn, 1949), is a monotypic species which has been recorded in a number of Brazilian states, but has a disjunct distribution in this country. This study presents the first record of T. nicefori in the Brazilian state of Maranhão. The specimens were collected in the municipalities of Godofredo Viana and Cândido Mendes, in fragments of the Amazon forest. One male (forearm: 38.00 mm, weight: 6 g) and one female (39.68 mm, 8 g) specimens were collected. The specimens presented chestnut-colored fur, and a chin with a pair of dermal pads arranged in a V-shape, without a central papilla. The COI gene sequences were plotted in the BOLD Systems platform, which confirmed the morphological identification of the species, with a 99.1% similarity in the male, and 99.4% in the female to existing sequences. This record extends the known distribution of T. nicefori in Brazil by approximately 310 km to the most eastern part of the Amazon Biome.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.784.25562

Authors: Gayan Edirisinghe, Thilina Surasinghe, Dinesh Gabadage, Madhava Botejue, Kalika Perera, Majintha Madawala, Devaka Weerakoon, Suranjan Karunarathna

Abstract: In Sri Lanka, there are 31 species of bats distributed from lowlands to mountains. To document bat diversity and their habitat associations, 58 roosting sites in Maduru-Oya National Park periphery were surveyed. Fifteen bat species were recorded occupying 16 different roosting sites in this area. Among all the species recorded, Rhinolophus rouxii was the most abundant species per roosting site whereas Kerivoula picta was the least abundant. A road-kill specimen similar to genus Phoniscus was found during the survey, a genus so far only documented in Southeast Asia and Australasia. Although our study area provided habitats for a diverse chiropteran community, the colony size per roost was remarkably low. Although our study area is supposedly a part of the park’s buffer zone, many anthropogenic activities are threatening the bat community: felling large trees, slash-and-burn agriculture, excessive use of agrochemicals, vengeful killing, and subsidized predation. We strongly recommend adoption of wildlife-friendly sustainable land management practices in the buffer zone such as forest gardening, agroforestry (alley cropping, mixed-cropping), and integrated farming. Bat conservation in this region should take a landscape-scale conservation approach which includes Maduru-Oya National Park and other surrounding protected areas into a regional conservation network. Extents of undisturbed wilderness are dramatically declining in Sri Lanka; thus, future conservation efforts must be retrofitted into anthropocentric multiuse landscapes and novel ecosystems like areas surrounding Maduru-Oya National Park.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.781.25359

Authors: Tereza Holicová, František Sedláček, Anna Mácová, Jakub Vlček, Jan Robovský

Abstract: The Eastern European vole (Microtus mystacinus) is an arvicoline rodent distributed across northern and eastern Europe, the Balkans, Turkey, Armenia, NW and N Iran, Russia as far east as the Tobol River in W Siberia, and W and N Kazakhstan. We present a novel records from eastern Kazakhstan (the village of Dzhambul – 49°14'21.3"N, 86°18'29.9"E and the village of Sekisovka – 50°21'9.18"N, 82°35'46.5"E) based on mtDNA and we discuss implications of this findings on biogeography of eastern Kazakhstan populations. Marine Isotope Stage 11 is considered an important period for the diversification of the arvalis species group. In the context of our study, it is important to analyse genetically discontinuous Siberian populations, and the current distribution of Microtus mystacinus in new localities in eastern Kazakhstan.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.770.22554

Authors: Klára Pyšková, Ondřej Kauzál, David Storch, Ivan Horáček, Jan Pergl, Petr Pyšek

Abstract: Quantitative data on local variation in patterns of occurrence of common carnivore species, such as the red fox, European badger, or martens in central Europe are largely missing. We conducted a study focusing on carnivore ecology and distribution in a cultural landscape with the use of modern technology. We placed 73 automated infra-red camera traps into four different habitats differing in water availability and canopy cover (mixed forest, wetland, shrubby grassland and floodplain forest) in the Polabí region near Prague, Czech Republic. Each habitat was represented by three or four spatially isolated sites within which the camera traps were distributed. During the year of the study, we recorded nine carnivore species, including the non-native golden jackal. Habitats with the highest numbers of records pooled across all species were wetland (1279) and shrubby grassland (1014); fewer records were made in mixed (876) and floodplain forest (734). Habitat had a significant effect on the number of records of badger and marten, and a marginally significant effect on fox. In terms of seasonal dynamics, there were significant differences in the distribution of records among seasons in fox, marginally significant in least weasel, and the occurrence among seasons did not differ for badger and marten. In the summer, fox and marten were more active than expected by chance during the day, while the pattern was opposite in winter when they were more active during the night. Our findings on habitat preferences and circadian and seasonal activity provided the first quantitative data on patterns whose existence was assumed on the basis of conventional wisdom. Our study demonstrates the potential of a long-term monitoring approach based on infra-red camera traps. Generally, the rather frequent occurrence of recorded species indicates that most carnivore species are thriving in current central-European landscapes characterized by human-driven disturbances and urbanization.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.759.15149

Authors: James W. Hody, Roland Kays

Abstract: The geographic distribution of coyotes (Canis latrans) has dramatically expanded since 1900, spreading across much of North America in a period when most other mammal species have been declining. Although this considerable expansion has been well documented at the state/provincial scale, continent-wide descriptions of coyote spread have portrayed conflicting distributions for coyotes prior to the 1900s, with popularly referenced anecdotal accounts showing them restricted to the great plains, and more obscure, but data-rich accounts suggesting they ranged across the arid west. To provide a scientifically credible map of the coyote’s historical range (10,000–300 BP) and describe their range expansion from 1900 to 2016, we synthesized archaeological and fossil records, museum specimens, peer-reviewed reports, and records from wildlife management agencies. Museum specimens confirm that coyotes have been present in the arid west and California throughout the Holocene, well before European colonization. Their range in the late 1800s was undistinguishable from earlier periods, and matched the distribution of non-forest habitat in the region. Coyote expansion began around 1900 as they moved north into taiga forests, east into deciduous forests, west into costal temperate rain forests, and south into tropical rainforests. Forest fragmentation and the extirpation of larger predators probably enabled these expansions. In addition, hybridization with wolves (C. lupus, C. lycaon, and/or C. rufus) and/or domestic dogs has been documented in the east, and suspected in the south. Our detailed account of the original range of coyotes and their subsequent expansion provides the core description of a large scale ecological experiment that can help us better understand the predator-prey interactions, as well as evolution through hybridization.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.742.22364

Authors: Ferdinand Bego, Enerit Saçdanaku, Michela Pacifici, Carlo Rondinini

Abstract: In this paper new records are reported for 23 species of small terrestrial mammals (STM) of Albania collected during the field work campaigns organised in the framework of the project “Strengthening capacity in National Nature Protection – preparation for Natura 2000 network” (NaturAL) in Albania during the summer and autumn of 2016 and 2017 Data on small mammals were primarily collected through Sherman live-trapping campaigns in six high priority protected areas of Albania: Korab-Koritnik, Bredhi i Hotovës, Tomorri, Llogara-Karaburun, Divjakë-Karavasta, Liqeni i Shkodrës (Skadar lake), Lëpushë-Vermosh. Other data were obtained by analysis of owl pellets or by direct observation of individuals (dead or alive) in the field. For 21 species Erinaceus roumanicus, Neomys anomalus, Crocidura suaveolens, Crocidura leucodon, Suncus etruscus, Talpa stankovici/caeca, Myocastor coypus, Sciurus vulgaris, Glis glis, Dryomys nitedula, Muscardinus avellanarius, Microtus levis/arvalis, Microtus subterraneus, Microtus thomasi, Microtus felteni, Myodes glareolus, Apodemus sylvaticus, Apodemus flavicollis, Apodemus epimelas, Mus musculus, and Mus macedonicus additional records are provide and their distributions reviewed, while the presence of two new species of shrews (Sorex araneus and Sorex minutus) for Albania is reported for the first time. A comprehensive review of the published and unpublished distribution records of STM species of the country is made, together with an updated checklist and distribution maps of the species.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.710.14033

Authors: M. Julieta Pérez, Rubén M. Barquez, M. Mónica Díaz

Abstract: Here, a detailed description of the forelimbs and hindlimbs of all living species of the genus Tympanoctomys are presented. These rodents, highly adapted to desert environments, are semi-fossorial with capacity to move on the surface as well as to build burrows. The shape, structure, and size of the limbs are described. Contrary to what was expected for scratch digging semi-fossorial species, Tympanoctomys have slender humerus, radius and ulna; with narrow epicondyles of the humerus and short olecranon of the ulna with poorly developed processes. Following our descriptions, no intrageneric morphological variation regarding to the configuration of the limbs was detected, probably due to phylogenetic proximity, and not related to specific variations in response to different use of substrates or habits. The obtained results constitute a source of previously unpublished information as well as an important base for future analysis in different studies, such as morphometric, morpho-functional, or phylogenetic researches.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.697.15124

Authors: Eliécer E. Gutiérrez, Kristofer M. Helgen, Molly M. McDonough, Franziska Bauer, Melissa T.R. Hawkins, Luis A. Escobedo-Morales, Bruce D. Patterson, Jesus E. Maldonado

Abstract: The taxonomy of American deer has been established almost entirely on the basis of morphological data and without the use of explicit phylogenetic methods; hence, phylogenetic analyses including data for all of the currently recognized species, even if based on a single gene, might improve current understanding of their taxonomy. We tested the monophyly of the morphology-defined genera and species of New World deer (Odocoileini) with phylogenetic analyses of mitochondrial DNA sequences. This is the first such test conducted using extensive geographic and taxonomic sampling. Our results do not support the monophyly of Mazama, Odocoileus, Pudu, M. americana, M. nemorivaga, Od. hemionus, and Od. virginianus. Mazama contains species that belong to other genera. We found a novel sister-taxon relationship between “Mazama” pandora and a clade formed by Od. hemionus columbianus and Od. h. sitkensis, and transfer pandora to Odocoileus. The clade formed by Od. h. columbianus and Od. h. sitkensis may represent a valid species, whereas the remaining subspecies of Od. hemionus appear closer to Od. virginianus. Pudu (Pudu) puda was not found sister to Pudu (Pudella) mephistophiles. If confirmed, this result will prompt the recognition of the monotypic Pudella as a distinct genus. We provide evidence for the existence of an undescribed species now confused with Mazama americana, and identify other instances of cryptic, taxonomically unrecognized species-level diversity among populations here regarded as Mazama temama, “Mazama” nemorivaga, and Hippocamelus antisensis. Noteworthy records that substantially extend the known distributions of M. temama and “M.” gouazoubira are provided, and we unveil a surprising ambiguity regarding the distribution of “M.” nemorivaga, as it is described in the literature. The study of deer of the tribe Odocoileini has been hampered by the paucity of information regarding voucher specimens and the provenance of sequences deposited in GenBank. We pinpoint priorities for future systematic research on the tribe Odocoileini.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.672.10078

Authors: Shino Furusaka, Chinatsu Kozakai, Yui Nemoto, Yoshihiro Umemura, Tomoko Naganuma, Koji Yamazaki, Shinsuke Koike

Abstract: The present study aimed to investigate the nutritional aspects of the bear diet quantitatively, in order to understand plant food selection in spring. Bears were observed directly from April to July in 2013 and 2014, to visually recognize plant species consumed by bears, and to describe the foraging period in the Ashio-Nikko Mountains, central Japan. Leaves were collected from eight dominant tree species, regardless of whether bears fed on them in spring, and their key nutritional components analyzed: crude protein (CP), neutral detergent fiber (NDF), and total energy. Bears tended to consume fresh leaves of specific species in May, and nutritional analysis revealed that these leaves had higher CP and lower NDF than other non-food leaves. However, CP in consumed leaves gradually decreased, and NDF increased from May to July, when the bears’ food item preference changed from plant materials to ants. Bears may consume tree leaves with high CP and low NDF after hibernation to rebuild muscle mass.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.644.10827

Authors: Eliécer E. Gutiérrez, Jader Marinho-Filho

Abstract: We undertook a comprehensive, critical review of literature concerning the distribution, conservation status, and taxonomy of species of mammals endemic to the Cerrado and the Caatinga, the two largest biomes of the South American Dry-Diagonal. We present species accounts and lists of species, which we built with criteria that, in our opinion, yielded results with increased scientific rigor relative to previously published lists – e.g., excluding nominal taxa whose statuses as species have been claimed only on the basis of unpublished data, incomplete taxonomic work, or weak evidence. For various taxa, we provided arguments regarding species distributions, conservation and taxonomic statuses previously lacking in the literature. Two major findings are worth highlighting. First, we unveil the existence of a group of species endemic to both the Cerrado and the Caatinga (i.e., present in both biomes and absent in all other biomes). From the biogeographic point of view, this group, herein referred to as Caatinga-Cerrado endemics, deserves attention as a unit – just as in case of the Caatinga-only and the Cerrado-only endemics. We present preliminary hypotheses on the origin of these three endemic faunas (Cerrado-only, Caatinga-only, and Caatinga-Cerrado endemics). Secondly, we discovered that a substantial portion of the endemic mammalian faunas of the Caatinga and the Cerrado faces risks of extinction that are unrecognized in the highly influential Red List of Threatened Species published by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). “Data deficient” is a category that misrepresents the real risks of extinction of these species considering that (a) some of these species are known only from a handful of specimens collected in a single or a few localities long ago; (b) the Cerrado and the Caatinga have been sufficiently sampled to guarantee collection of additional specimens of these species if they were abundant; (c) natural habitats of the Cerrado and the Caatinga have been substantially altered or lost in recent decades. Failures either in the design of the IUCN criteria or in their application to assign categories of extinction risks represent an additional important threat to these endemic faunas because their real risks of extinctions become hidden. It is imperative to correct this situation, particularly considering that these species are associated to habitats that are experiencing fast transformation into areas for agriculture, at an unbearable cost for biodiversity.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.641.10946

Authors: Klára Pyšková, David Storch, Ivan Horáček, Ondřej Kauzál, Petr Pyšek

Abstract: A golden jackal (Canis aureus) individual was recorded ~40 km east of Prague in the Czech Republic. It is the first record of a living golden jackal in the country; up to now several individuals have been recorded but all of them were either shot dead or killed by a vehicle. The observed animal was documented by camera traps set up for research of carnivore diversity in different habitats in the study area. It was first photographed on 19 June 2015, and in total there were 57 records made by 12 traps until 24 March 2016 when the animal was still present in the area. Forty-nine of the 57 records were made in a shrubby grassland over an area of ~100 ha, 39% of sightings were during the day and 61% in the night. There were two distinct peaks in the circadian activity of the animal, from 4 to 10 a.m., and from 6 p.m. to midnight. We also review the verified records of the golden jackal in the Czech Republic, some of which were only published in local hunting magazines. However, the observation reported in this paper represents the first evidence of a long-term occurrence in Europe of the same golden jackal individual, that persisted for at least nine months and over winter, northwest of Hungarian-Austrian border where the population has been known to reproduce.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.634.10207

Authors: Nora Escribano, David Galicia, Arturo H. Ariño, Carmen Escala

Abstract: In this paper five datasets are described that provide information about records of mammals in the Vertebrate Collection of the Museum of Zoology of the University of Navarra (MZNA-VERT). The datasets contain 3,466 records belonging to 20 species of mammals sampled across the transition zone between the Atlantic and Mediterranean biogeographical regions (north Iberian Peninsula). The datasets include both distributional data (georeferenced records) and basic biometric data of most of the vouchered specimens stored in the museum facilities. The samples originated mainly within research projects and PhD theses carried out in the former department of Zoology and Ecology of the University of Navarra between 1982 and 2011. The Darwin Core Archive Format datasets are accessible through GBIF.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.625.9116

Authors: Taichi Iida, Masashi Soga, Shinsuke Koike

Abstract: The overabundance of large herbivores is now recognized as a serious ecological problem. However, the resulting ecological consequences remain poorly understood. The ecological effects of an increase in sika deer, Cervus nippon Temminck (Cervidae), on three insect groups of beetles was investigated: ground beetles (Carabidae), carrion beetles (Silphidae), and dung beetles (Scarabaeidae and Geotrupidae) on Nakanoshima Island, Hokkaido, northern Japan. We collected beetles on Nakanoshima Island (experimental site) and lakeshore areas (control site) and compared the species richness, abundance, diversity index, and community composition of beetles between the sites. Results showed that although both species diversity and abundance of carabid beetles were significantly higher at the lakeshore site, those of dung and carrion beetles were higher at the island site. It was additionally observed that abundance of larger carabid beetles was higher at the lakeshore site, whereas that of small-sized carabid beetles did not differ between the lakeshore and island sites. For dung beetles, abundance of smaller species was higher at the island site, whereas that of large species did not differ between the lakeshore and island sites. Abundance of two body sizes (small and large) of carrion beetles were both higher at the island site. Overall, the findings of this study demonstrated that an increase in deer population altered the insect assemblages at an island scale, suggesting further changes in ecosystem functions and services in this region.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.618.8886

Authors: Fuhua Zhang, Shibao Wu, Cuiyun Zou, Qiaoyun Wang, Shaoshan Li, Ruyong Sun

Abstract: The Chinese pangolin (Manis pentadactyla Linnaeus, 1758) is a critically endangered species, and documents on its captive breeding and reproductive parameters are scarce. MP8, kept in the Pangolin Research Base for Artificial Rescue and Conservation Breeding of South China Normal University (the PRB-SCNU), gave birth to a male offspring (MP86) on 19 October 2011. The baby pangolin was well developed, with a weight of 120 g and a total length of 23.2 cm. The gestation length of MP8 was estimated to be from 182 to 225d. Reproductive parameters of the Chinese pangolin are discussed based on collected data about this species. The Chinese pangolin has an obvious reproductive seasonality and its gestation length is typically six to seven months. In this observation, estrus and mating principally occurred in a one-year period from February to July. Parturition principally took place from September to February of the next year. Chinese pangolins usually give birth to one offspring at a time (n = 27). Sex ratio at birth was 0.71:1 (♀:♂, n = 12). Average weight for the reproducible females was 3.57 ± 1.38 kg (2.14–6.8 kg, n = 15). We estimated that Chinese pangolins could reach sexual maturity before they were one year old.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.597.8618

Authors: Michael Schmitt

Abstract: n/a

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.592.6912

Authors: Li Yang, Mujiao Huang, Rui Zhang, Lv Jiang, Yueheng Ren, Zhe Jiang, Wei Zhang, Xiaofeng Luan

Abstract: The range of the Amur leopard (Panthera pardus orientalis) has decreased dramatically over the last 100 years. This species is still under extreme risk of extinction and conservation efforts are rigorous. Understanding the long-term dynamics of the population decline would be helpful to offer insight into the mechanism behind the decline and endangerment and improve conservation perspectives and strategies. Historical data collection has been the challenge for reconstructing the historical distribution. In China, new gazetteers having systematic compilation and considerable local ecological data can be considered as an important complementary for reconstruction. Therefore, we have set up a data set (mainly based on the new gazetteers) in order to identify the historical range of the Amur Leopard from the 1950s to 2014. The result shows that the Amur leopard was historically widely distributed with large populations in Northeastern China, but it presented a sharp decline after the 1970s. The decline appeared from the plains to the mountains and northeast to southwest since the 1950s. Long-term historical data, mainly from new gazetteers, demonstrates that such resources are capable of tracking species change through time and offers an opportunity to reduce data shortage and enhance understanding in conservation.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.582.5966

Authors: Madhu Chetri, Yadvendradev Jhala, Shant Raj Jnawali, Naresh Subedi, Maheshwar Dhakal, Bibek Yumnam

Abstract: The taxonomic status of the wolf (Canis lupus) in Nepal’s Trans-Himalaya is poorly understood. Recent genetic studies have revealed the existence of three lineages of wolves in the Indian sub-continent. Of these, the Himalayan wolf, Canis lupus chanco, has been reported to be the most ancient lineage historically distributed within the Nepal Himalaya. These wolves residing in the Trans-Himalayan region have been suggested to be smaller and very different from the European wolf. During October 2011, six fecal samples suspected to have originated from wolves were collected from Upper Mustang in the Annapurna Conservation Area of Nepal. DNA extraction and amplification of the mitochondrial (mt) control region (CR) locus yielded sequences from five out of six samples. One sample matched domestic dog sequences in GenBank, while the remaining four samples were aligned within the monophyletic and ancient Himalayan wolf clade. These four sequences which matched each other, were new and represented a novel Himalayan wolf haplotype. This result confirms that the endangered ancient Himalayan wolf is extant in Nepal. Detailed genomic study covering Nepal’s entire Himalayan landscape is recommended in order to understand their distribution, taxonomy and, genetic relatedness with other wolves potentially sharing the same landscape.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.566.7317

Authors: Arame Ndiaye, Caroline Tatard, William Stanley, Laurent Granjon

Abstract: Methodological improvements now allow routine analyses of highly degraded DNA samples as found in museum specimens. Using these methods could be useful in studying such groups as rodents of the genus Gerbillus for which i) the taxonomy is still highly debated, ii) collection of fresh specimens may prove difficult. Here we address precise taxonomic questions using a small portion of the cytochrome b gene obtained from 45 dry skin/skull museum samples (from 1913 to 1974) originating from two African and three Asian countries. The specimens were labelled G. gerbillus, G. andersoni, G. nanus, G. amoenus, G. perpallidus and G. pyramidum, and molecular results mostly confirmed these assignations. The close relationship between G. nanus (Asian origin) and G. amoenus (African origin) confirmed that they represent vicariant sibling species which differentiated in allopatry on either side of the Red Sea. In the closely related G. perpallidus and G. pyramidum, specimens considered as belonging to one G. pyramidum subspecies (G. p. floweri) appeared closer to G. perpallidus suggesting that they (G. p. floweri and G. perpallidus) may represent a unique species, distributed on both sides of the Nile River, for which the correct name should be G. floweri. Furthermore, the three other G. pyramidum subspecies grouped together with no apparent genetic structure suggesting that they may not yet represent genetically differentiated lineages. This study confirms the importance of using these methods on museum samples, which can open new perspectives in this particular group as well as in other groups of interest.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.514.10013

Authors: Ricardo Moratelli, Daniela Dias

Abstract: We describe Lonchophylla inexpectata sp. n. from the Caatinga of Brazil. This new species can be distinguished from all known species of Lonchophylla that occur in Brazil by dental traits, cranial size, and fur colour. Specimens of L. inexpectata have been misidentified as L. mordax; but L. inexpectata is a pale-venter species, similar in external appearance to L. dekeyseri. We have found L. inexpectata in the Caatinga of North-eastern Brazil; L. mordax along the eastern border of the Caatinga and in the Atlantic Forest–Caatinga ecotone in North-eastern Brazil; and L. dekeyseri in the Cerrado of Mid-western Brazil, in the Brazilian Cerrado–Caatinga ecotone, and as far west as the Cerrado of Bolivia.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.509.9821

Authors: Tremaine Gregory, Darrin Lunde, Hugo Tomás Zamora Meza, Farah Carrasco-Rueda

Abstract: Coendou ichillus was first described in 2001 by Voss and da Silva, with a range from Amazonian Ecuador to Iquitos, Peru. Here, we describe an adult female Coendou ichillus specimen collected in a Tomahawk trap in the forest canopy of the Lower Urubamba Region of Peru in October 2013. We also describe pathologies and behaviors observed through 379 camera trapping photo events (2,196 photos) gathered in natural canopy bridges over the course of a year (7,198 trap nights), including information on activity period over the course of the day and over the course of the lunar cycle. We conservatively estimate that 17 individuals were photographed, including one juvenile. Being 900 km away from Iquitos, Peru (the site of the closest record), discovery of this species in the Lower Urubamba constitutes a significant range extension.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.507.6970

Authors: Liushuai Hua, Shiping Gong, Fumin Wang, Weiye Li, Yan Ge, Xiaonan Li, Fanghui Hou

Abstract: Pangolins are unique placental mammals with eight species existing in the world, which have adapted to a highly specialized diet of ants and termites, and are of significance in the control of forest termite disaster. Besides their ecological value, pangolins are extremely important economic animals with the value as medicine and food. At present, illegal hunting and habitat destruction have drastically decreased the wild population of pangolins, pushing them to the edge of extinction. Captive breeding is an important way to protect these species, but because of pangolin’s specialized behaviors and high dependence on natural ecosystem, there still exist many technical barriers to successful captive breeding programs. In this paper, based on the literatures and our practical experience, we reviewed the status and existing problems in captive breeding of pangolins, including four aspects, the naturalistic habitat, dietary husbandry, reproduction and disease control. Some recommendations are presented for effective captive breeding and protection of pangolins.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.487.9176

Authors: Eliécer Gutiérrez, Ronald H. Pine

Abstract: By means of mitochondrial 12S rRNA sequencing of putative “yeti”, “bigfoot”, and other “anomalous primate” hair samples, a recent study concluded that two samples, presented as from the Himalayas, do not belong to an “anomalous primate”, but to an unknown, anomalous type of ursid. That is, that they match 12S rRNA sequences of a fossil Polar Bear (Ursus maritimus), but neither of modern Polar Bears, nor of Brown Bears (Ursus arctos), the closest relative of Polar Bears, and one that occurs today in the Himalayas. We have undertaken direct comparison of sequences; replication of the original comparative study; inference of phylogenetic relationships of the two samples with respect to those from all extant species of Ursidae (except for the Giant Panda, Ailuropoda melanoleuca) and two extinct Pleistocene species; and application of a non-tree-based population aggregation approach for species diagnosis and identification. Our results demonstrate that the very short fragment of the 12S rRNA gene sequenced by Sykes et al. is not sufficiently informative to support the hypotheses provided by these authors with respect to the taxonomic identity of the individuals from which these sequences were obtained. We have concluded that there is no reason to believe that the two samples came from anything other than Brown Bears. These analyses afforded an opportunity to test the monophyly of morphologically defined species and to comment on both their phylogenetic relationships and future efforts necessary to advance our understanding of ursid systematics.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.459.8952

Authors: Andre Bochkov, Alexei Abramov

Abstract: Two new species of parasitic acariform mites (Acariformes) are described from the Delacour’s marmoset rat Hapalomys delacouri Thomas (Rodentia: Muridae) in Vietnam: Afrolistrophorus (Afrolistrophorus) hapalomyssp. n. (Listrophoridae) and Radfordia (Radfordia) mirabilissp. n. (Myobiidae). Based on morphological evidences, we show that species of both mite genera associated with Hapalomys Blyth do not demonstrate clear phylogenetic links with respective congeners from rodents of the closest genus Chiropodomys Peters (Rodentia: Muridae).

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.451.7210

Authors: Alexander Balakirev, Alexei Abramov, Viatcheslav Rozhnov

Abstract: Based on molecular data for mitochondrial (Cyt b, COI) and nuclear (IRBP, GHR) genes, and morphological examinations of museum specimens, we examined diversity, species boundaries, and relationships within and between the murine genera Chiromyscus and Niviventer. Phylogenetic patterns recovered demonstrate that Niviventer sensu lato is not monophyletic but instead includes Chiromyscus chiropus, the only previously recognized species of Chiropus. To maintain the genera Niviventer and Chiropus as monophyletic lineages, the scope and definition of the genus Chiromyscus is revised to include at least three distinct species: Chiromyscus chiropus (the type species of Chiromyscus), C. langbianis (previously regarded as a species of Niviventer), and a new species, described in this paper under the name C. thomasi sp. n.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.407.6982

Authors: Abdul-Latiff Muhammad Abu Bakar, Farhani Ruslin, vun vui fui, Mohd Hashim Abu, Jeffrine Rovie Ryan Japning, pazil Abdul-Patah, maklarin lakim, Christian Roos, Salmah Yaakop, Badrul M Unir Md Zain

Abstract: Phylogenetic relationships among Malaysia’s long-tailed macaques have yet to be established, despite abundant genetic studies of the species worldwide. The aims of this study are to examine the phylogenetic relationships of Macaca fascicularis in Malaysia and to test its classification as a morphological subspecies. A total of 25 genetic samples of M. fascicularis yielding 383 bp of Cytochrome b (Cyt b) sequences were used in phylogenetic analysis along with one sample each of M. nemestrina and M. arctoides used as outgroups. Sequence character analysis reveals that Cyt b locus is a highly conserved region with only 23% parsimony informative character detected among ingroups. Further analysis indicates a clear separation between populations originating from different regions; the Malay Peninsula versus Borneo Insular, the East Coast versus West Coast of the Malay Peninsula, and the island versus mainland Malay Peninsula populations. Phylogenetic trees (NJ, MP and Bayesian) portray a consistent clustering paradigm as Borneo’s population was distinguished from Peninsula’s population (98% and 100% bootstrap value in NJ and MP respectively and 1.00 posterior probability in Bayesian trees). The East coast population was separated from other Peninsula populations (100% in NJ and MP, 1.00 in Bayesian). West coast populations were divided into 2 clades: the North-South (54% in NJ, 45% in MP and 0.99 in Bayesian) and Island-Mainland (54% in NJ, 45% in MP and 0.99 in Bayesian). The results confirm the previous morphological assignment of 2 subspecies, M. f. fascicularis and M. f. argentimembris, in the Malay Peninsula. These populations should be treated as separate genetic entities in order to conserve the genetic diversity of Malaysia’s M. fascicularis. These findings are crucial in aiding the conservation management and translocation process of M. fascicularis populations in Malaysia.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.402.7228

Authors: Paul Velazco, Bruce Patterson

Abstract: Two new species of yellow-shouldered bats Sturnira Gray, 1842 (Chiroptera, Phyllostomidae) from Central America and western South America are described using molecular and morphological data. The two new species, which occur in Costa Rica and Panama and in western Ecuador, were previously confused with S. ludovici, and S. lilium and S. luisi, respectively. Sturnira now includes 22 described species, making it the most speciose genus in the Neotropical family Phyllostomidae.

HTML

XML

PDF

DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.368.4691

Authors: Giovanni Amori, Gaetano Aloise, Luca Luiselli

Abstract: Recent molecular evidence suggests that Sciurus vulgaris populations from Calabria (southern Italy) are distinct from those occurring in northern and central Italy. Here, we re-analyzed using multivariate and univariate techniques an historical dataset provided by Cavazza (1913), who documented measurements for the now extinct squirrel population from Campania. Both univariate and multivariate analyses confirmed that the sample from Calabria was homogenous and relatively distinct compared to the rest of the squirrel samples.

HTML

XML

PDF