Genetic structure of the Asian Grass Frog, Fejevarya limnocharis (Amphibia: Anura: Dicroglossidae) of Peninsular Malaysia: a preliminary report

Abstract

Background: Fejevarya limnocharis (Dicroglossidae) is found widespread in Peninsular Malaysia. We analyzed the mitochondrial DNA control region sequence data to evaluate the genetic variability and population structure of this species, based on 106 individuals from 14 populations in the west coast (northwest and central west) and two populations from the east coast of Peninsular Malaysia. Results: Of 519, 13 variable sites (six parsimony informative sites) were observed, defining 14 unique haplotypes. We found very low levels of genetic variability, with three of the 16 populations exhibiting total absence of genetic variation. Both phylogenetic analyses based on NJ and MP methods failed to detect any geographic structuring between the east and west coast (northwest and central west combined) populations.Conclusions: Consequently, it can be inferred that genetic structuring F. limnocharis populations in the Peninsular Malaysia was largely shaped by natural barriers. However, when this breaks down as between the central west and east peninsular regions, genetic differentiation is reduced. Further studies, with more efficient markers and larger populations, especially from the southern regions, are required to corroborate the findings.

Inventory and Assessment of the Pongo (Linnaeus, 1760) Skeletal Collection Housed at the Yale Peabody Museum

“…In the past, hunters competed on how many could be shot at that locality in a single day (Brooke and Mundy 1848; Wallace 1857; Meijaard et al 2010). A 2010 study of frogs in the Batang Sadong basin (Zainudin et al 2010) notes that 98% of that landscape has been turned into palm oil plantations, with additional deforestation noted in more recent years (Omorinoye et al 2021). Given these habitat changes, it is very likely that few orangutans are present now.…”

“…In the past, hunters competed on how many could be shot at that locality in a single day(Brooke and Mundy 1848; Wallace 1857;Meijaard et al 2010). A 2010 study of frogs in the Batang Sadong basin(Zainudin et al 2010) notes that 98% of that landscape has been turned into palm oil plantations, with…”

Patterns and Progress of Peninsular Malaysia’s Amphibian Research in the 21st Century (2000–2020)

“…At the turn of the 21 st century, important contributions continue to be made, largely led and inspired by the prominent Malaysian zoologist Dr. Lim Boo Liat (Das et al 2004; Grismer et al 2001, 2004; Kiew et al 1995; Leong & Lim 2004; Lim et al 2002; Norhayati et al 2005). Alongside surveys, inventories, and new species discoveries that continue to be forthcoming, the breadth of research topics also expanded to include research in the field of molecular systematics and evolution (Chan et al 2017, 2018b, 2020c, b; a; Chan & Brown 2017, 2020; Chan & Grismer 2019; Davis et al 2016; Hurzaid et al 2014; Matsui et al 2017; Stuart et al 2006). As research continues to develop with changing times and technologies, we review the status, patterns, and progress of Peninsular Malaysia’s amphibian research in the 21st century with the main goal of identifying areas for improvement that can help focus and prioritize future research initiatives.…”