Molecular phylogeny and taxonomic revision of the sportive lemurs (Lepilemur, Primates).

ABSTRACT:

Background

The number of species within the Malagasy genus Lepilemur and their phylogenetic relationships is disputed and controversial. In order to establish their evolutionary relationships, a comparative cytogenetic and molecular study was performed. We sequenced the complete mitochondrial cytochrome b gene (1140 bp) from 68 individuals representing all eight sportive lemur species and most major populations, and compared the results with those obtained from cytogenetic studies derived from 99 specimens.

Results

Interspecific genetic variation, diagnostic characters and significantly supported phylogenetic relationships were obtained from the mitochondrial sequence data and are in agreement with cytogenetic information. The results confirm the distinctiveness of Lepilemur

SUBMITTER: Andriaholinirina N 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC1397877 | biostudies-literature | 2006 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature