Systematics, geographic variation, and evolution of snow voles ( Chionomys ) based on dental characters

摘要: Analysis of dental characters Chionomys supported by a comparison with biochemical and karyological criteria shows its isolation from Microtus (sensu stricto). Snow voles (Chionomys) consist two lineages developed separately since the Lower Biharian. The first one has appeared evolved in Europe (Ch. nivalis lineage) while second is probably Near East or Caucasus origin roberti-gud lineage). Variation extant Ch. permit to reconstruct affinities between particular populations comparable this respect data. Fossil species traditionally included Chinomys group (Microtus malei, M. nivaloides, nivalinus, ratticepoides) seem belong sensu stricto.