The double origin of Iberian peninsular chameleons

摘要: There is considerable controversy concerning the origin of Iberian populations Mediterranean chameleon, Chamaeleo chamaeleon. Current opinion dictates that Spanish result from introductions during 18th and 19th centuries, with subsequent translocations original to other parts Spain. The Portugese population in Algarve believed have been introduced Africa or Spain 1920s. However, Holocene remains chameleons suggest Malaga at least could a much older origin. Analysis sequences mitochondrial 16S ribosomal RNA gene samples Peninsula North revealed double for population. (Malaga) closely related African populations, Atlantic more coast Africa. overall genetic differentiation diversity observed was very low, preventing precise dating colonization events. However this low level not consistent Plio-Pleistocene colonization, assumed timing natural event suggests were probably twice by man recent past.