Cryptic diversity is frequent among lizards from the Neotropical region. In particular, geckos belonging to the genus Homonota exhibit high levels of phenotypic and ecological conservatism. Homonota uruguayensis is endemic to rocky outcrops in the Uruguayan Savanna, and a previous study based on mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) revealed a highly divergent clade in an isolated population. In this study, we used a set of two mitochondrial (Cytb and 12S) and six autosomal (DMLX, MXRA, PRLR, SNCAIP, H19B and H30B) genetic markers to evaluate the taxonomic status of different populations of H. uruguayensis. We then used morphological data to further check the favoured coalescent model of species delimitation. A careful re‐evaluation of meristic and continuous morphological traits within the H. uruguayensis complex indicated that the new species can be morphologically distinguished. The species tree confirmed the deep divergence times associated with the new species previously reported for mtDNA and indicated congruence among independent gene trees. Overall, the results clearly support the recognition of a new species, based on deep genetic divergence and morphological differentiation. While the full geographic range of the new species has not been thoroughly characterized, the localized endemism in a patch of rocky outcrops surrounded by intense silviculture activity strongly suggest that the new species should be considered to be under some degree of threat.
scite is a Brooklyn-based organization that helps researchers better discover and understand research articles through Smart Citations–citations that display the context of the citation and describe whether the article provides supporting or contrasting evidence. scite is used by students and researchers from around the world and is funded in part by the National Science Foundation and the National Institute on Drug Abuse of the National Institutes of Health.
customersupport@researchsolutions.com
10624 S. Eastern Ave., Ste. A-614
Henderson, NV 89052, USA
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Copyright © 2025 scite LLC. All rights reserved.
Made with 💙 for researchers
Part of the Research Solutions Family.