Molecular and morphological data reveal cryptic taxonomic diversity in the terrestrial slug complex Arion subfuscus/fuscus (Mollusca, Pulmonata, Arionidae) in continental north‐west Europe

摘要: The importance and abundance of cryptic species among invertebrate taxa is well documented. Nowadays, taxonomic, phylogenetic conservation biological studies frequently use molecular markers to delineate taxa. Such studies, however, often face the problem differential resolution techniques involved. This issue explored in present study within terrestrial slug complex Arion subfuscus/fuscus continental north-west Europe. To this end, morphological, allozyme mitochondrial 16S rDNA sequence data have been jointly evaluated. Using gonad type, two distinct groups were consistently delineated, even under sympatric conditions. strongly supported both those suggested presence three one them. However, view of: (1) allopatric distribution OTUs, (2) lack or morphological differentiation, (3) extremely high degree intraspecific mtDNA variation reported pulmonate gastropods, they are, for time being, not regarded as valid concept. By means data, position type topotype material A. subfuscus s.s. fuscus relative newly defined OTUs was determined, thus clarifying nomenclature complex. Additionally, proved be a useful character distinguishing