Systematics of snow voles (Chionomys, Arvicolinae) revisited

Glenn Yannic; Reto Burri; Vladimir G Malikov; Peter Vogel

doi:10.1016/j.ympev.2011.12.004

Systematics of snow voles (Chionomys, Arvicolinae) revisited

Mol Phylogenet Evol. 2012 Mar;62(3):806-15. doi: 10.1016/j.ympev.2011.12.004. Epub 2011 Dec 13.

Authors

Glenn Yannic¹, Reto Burri, Vladimir G Malikov, Peter Vogel

Affiliation

¹ Department of Ecology and Evolution, University of Lausanne, 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland. Glenn.Yannic@gmail.com

PMID: 22182990
DOI: 10.1016/j.ympev.2011.12.004

Abstract

To elucidate the evolutionary history of snow voles, genus Chionomys, we studied the phylogeography of Chionomysnivalis across its range and investigated its relationships with two congeneric species, Chionomysgud and Chionomysroberti, using independent molecular markers. Analyses were based on mitochondrial (~940 bp cyt b) and Y-chromosomal (~2020 bp from three introns) genetic variation. Our data provide conclusive evidence for a Caucasian and Middle Eastern origin for the three species and a subsequent westward expansion of C.nivalis. In addition, we discuss the taxonomic status of the genus Chionomys in relation to the genus Microtus.

Publication types

Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

Animals
Arvicolinae / classification*
Arvicolinae / genetics*
Cytochromes b / genetics
DNA, Mitochondrial
Evolution, Molecular
Female
Male
Phylogeny
Y Chromosome

Substances

DNA, Mitochondrial
Cytochromes b