Molecular phylogeny and species delimitation unravel climate-driven diversification and cryptic radiation in Iranian steppe Vipers (Vipera ursinii-renardi complex).

ABSTRACT: Accurate delineation of biodiversity units is essential for effective conservation, particularly in species complexes with cryptic diversity and fragmented distributions. In this study, we investigated the genetic structure, phylogenetic relationships, and phylogeographic history of Iranian populations within the Vipera ursinii-renardi complex by analysing two mitochondrial genes (cyt b, ND4) and three nuclear loci (PRLR, BDNF, NT3) from 12 individuals sampled across the species' known range. Multilocus phylogenetic analyses revealed two well-supported evolutionary lineages, including a previously unreported northwestern lineage (Lineage NW), which is sister to the Central Alborz lineage (V. ebneri sensu stricto; Lineage CA). Genetic clustering and haplotype network analyses further suppor

SUBMITTER: Faridi M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12658007 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature