Cryptic multicolored lizards in the Polychrus marmoratus Group (Squamata: Sauria: Polychrotidae) and the status of Leiolepis auduboni Hallowell

Authors

John C. Murphy, Field Museum of Natural History
Rick M. Lehtinen, The College of WoosterFollow
Stevland P. Charles, Howard University
Danielle Wasserman, Field Museum of Natural History
Tom Anton, Field Museum of Natural History
Patrick J. Brennan, The College of Wooster

Publication Date

2017

Document Type

Article

Journal Article Version

Version of Record

Volume

11

Issue

1

Abstract

The Neotropical genus Polychrus contains seven species of arboreal lizards. The type species for the genus is the widespread Polychrus marmoratus. We compared a few populations of P. marmoratus using 16S and COI mitochondrial gene sequences (1,035 bp total) and found several lineages existing under the name Polychrus marmoratus. Working backwards, using morphology we identify Polychrus marmoratus from the Guiana Shield and resurrect the name Leiolepis auduboni Hallowell for the species present in Trinidad, Tobago, and northern Venezuela. The number of species in the genus Polychrus is raised to eight. However, we also discuss evidence for the existence of other cryptic species within

Keywords

Guyana Shield, Venezuelan Coastal Ranges, Trinidad, Tobago, Atlantic Forest, reptiles

Recommended Citation

Murphy, John C.; Lehtinen, Rick M.; Charles, Stevland P.; Wasserman, Danielle; Anton, Tom; and Brennan, Patrick J., "Cryptic multicolored lizards in the Polychrus marmoratus Group (Squamata: Sauria: Polychrotidae) and the status of Leiolepis auduboni Hallowell" (2017). Amphibian & Reptile Conservation, 11(1), 1-16 (e132). Retrieved from https://openworks.wooster.edu/facpub/265