Genomic analysis of differentiation and demography of the formerly conspecific agile (Dipodomys agilis) and Dulzura (D. simulans) kangaroo rats.

ABSTRACT: Karyotype variation within Pacific kangaroo rat Dipodomys agilis motivated its division in 1997 into the agile kangaroo rat (AKR, D. agilis, 2N = 62) in the north of its range in California, and Dulzura kangaroo rat (DKR, D. simulans, 2N = 60) to the south, with a suspected sympatric zone south of the San Gabriel and San Bernardino Mountains. This division was supported by our whole genome sequencing that sampled a ~120 km transect from north of the mountains to SW Riverside County. The taxa showed marked genetic differentiation, with no evidence of hybridization or sympatry. AKR was found at the southern edge of the mountains, precluding the mountain barrier driving isolation, suggesting ecological separation linked to habitat differences between the mountains and the arid area to the sou

SUBMITTER: Cui Y 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12457632 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature