Cryptic diversity in Rhampholeon boulengeri (Sauria: Chamaeleonidae), a pygmy chameleon from the Albertine Rift biodiversity hotspot.

摘要: Several biogeographic barriers in the Central African highlands have reduced gene flow among populations of many terrestrial species predictable ways. Yet, a comprehensive understanding mechanisms underlying divergence Afrotropics can be obscured by unrecognized levels cryptic diversity, particularly widespread species. We implemented multilocus phylogeographic approach to examine diversity within widely distributed pygmy chameleon, Rhampholeon boulengeri. Gene-tree analyses coupled with comparative coalescent-based delimitation framework revealed R. boulengeri as complex at least six genetically distinct The spatiotemporal speciation patterns for these conform general hypotheses supporting vicariance main factor behind Albertine Rift, biodiversity hotspot Africa. However, we found that parapatric and sister inhabited adjacent habitats, but were largely non-overlapping elevational ranges suggesting differentiation elevation was also an important mode divergence. recovered genus-level phylogeny provide additional evidence isolation forest refugia, dating estimates indicated Miocene significant period this diversification. Our results highlight importance investigating improve diversification environmentally diverse regions such montane Afrotropics.