Phylogenetics and biogeography of the Balkan ‘sand gobies’ (Teleostei: Gobiidae): vulnerable species in need of taxonomic revision

摘要: Within the Atlantic–Mediterranean region, ‘sand gobies’ are abundant and widespread, play an important role in marine, brackish, freshwater ecosystems. They include smallest European fish, Economidichthys trichonis, which is threatened by habitat loss pollution, as several other sand gobies. Key to good conservation management accurate account of number evolutionary significant units. Nevertheless, many taxonomic questions remain unresolved within clade, molecular studies lacking, especially Balkans. Using partial 12S 16S mitochondrial ribosomal DNA sequences 96 specimens at least eight nominal species (both marine populations), we assess relationships compare morphological data. The results obtained do not support monophyly Economidichthys, suggesting perianal organ be a shared adaptation hole-brooding rather than synapomorphy, urge for revision Knipowitschia. recently described Knipowitschia montenegrina seems belong separate South-East Adriatic lineage. milleri, alleged endemic Acheron River, cf. panizzae, shown very closely related western Greek populations, appear conspecific. A distinct Macedonian–Thessalian lineage formed thessala, whereas caucasica appears eastern lineage, with populations Thrace Aegean. present study combines phylogeny goby radiation insights on historical biogeography Mediterranean, identifies units meriting attention. © 2011 Linnean Society London, Biological Journal Society, 2012, 105, 73–91.