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Type: Articles
Published: 2013-01-21
Page range: 221–238
Abstract views: 22
PDF downloaded: 17

Molecular phylogenetic relationships of the Liolaemus rothi complex and a new species of lizard from Auca Mahuida Volcano (Squamata: Liolaemini)

CENPAT-CONICET, Boulevard Almirante Brown 2915, 9120, Puerto Madryn, Chubut, Argentina
CENPAT-CONICET, Boulevard Almirante Brown 2915, 9120, Puerto Madryn, Chubut, Argentina
CENPAT-CONICET, Boulevard Almirante Brown 2915, 9120, Puerto Madryn, Chubut, Argentina
Universidad Nacional del Comahue, Buenos Aires 1400, 8300, Neuquén
CENPAT-CONICET, Boulevard Almirante Brown 2915, 9120, Puerto Madryn, Chubut, Argentina
Reptilia Patagonia Liolaemus sitesi sp. nov. rothi complex phylogeny Argentina

Abstract

A new species of lizard of the genus Liolaemus from Neuquén Province, western Argentina, is described. The new species is a member of the Liolaemus rothi species complex, and mitochondrial and nuclear molecular data show it as sister taxon of the clade composed of (L. hermannunezi (L. tromen + L. loboi)), differing in size, squamation, coloration, and sexual dimorphism from the other species of this group. Liolaemus sitesi sp. nov. has a dark body coloration with series of notched blotches on the dorsum, with bright spots, and a very iridescent yellow-green coloration in natural light. Liolaemus sitesi sp. nov. is found only in the Auca Mahuida volcano and is terrestrial, dwelling on the stony slopes with sandy soil between 1300 m  and the volcano summit.

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