Phylogenetic climatic niche evolution and diversification of the Neurergus species (Salamandridae) in the Irano-Anatolian biodiversity hotspot.

ABSTRACT: This study explores how climate variables influenced the evolution and diversification of Neurergus newts within the Irano-Anatolian biodiversity hotspot. We use a dated phylogenetic tree and climatic niche models to analyze their evolutionary history and ecological preferences. Using genetic data from nuclear (KIAA) and mitochondrial (16s and 12s) genes, we estimate divergence times and identify four major Neurergus clades. The initial speciation event occurred approximately 11.3 million years ago, coinciding with the uplift of the Zagros and Anatolian mountains. This geological transformation isolated newt populations, likely triggering the first speciation event. By integrating potential geographic distribution with climate variables, we reconstruct ancestral niche occupan

SUBMITTER: Khoshnamvand H 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11294440 | biostudies-literature | 2024 Aug

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature