Geographic patterns in morphometric and genetic variation for coyote populations with emphasis on southeastern coyotes.

摘要: Prior to 1900, coyotes (Canis latrans) were restricted the western and central regions of North America, but by early 2000s, became ubiquitous throughout eastern United States. Information regarding morphological genetic structure coyote populations in southeastern States is limited, where data exist, they are rarely compared those from other America. We assessed geographic patterns morphology genetics with special consideration Mean body mass increased along a west-to-east gradient, being intermediate northeastern coyotes. Similarly, principal component analysis linear measurements suggested that size exhibited shorter tails ears populations. Genetic analyses indicated represented distinct cluster differentiated strongly postulate experienced lower immigration than did coyotes, over time, genetically diverged both Coyotes colonizing America different selective pressures stable core range, we offer larger reflects an adaptation improved dispersal capabilities individuals expanding range.