Cranial variability and differentiation among golden jackals (Canis aureus) in Europe, Asia Minor and Africa.

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