Dynamics of chromosomal evolution in the genus Hypsiboas (Anura: Hylidae)

Genet Mol Res. 2014 Sep 26;13(3):7826-38. doi: 10.4238/2014.September.26.21.

Abstract

Hylidae is one of the most species-rich families of anurans, and 40% of representatives in this group occur in Brazil. In spite of such remarkable diversity, little is known about this family and its taxonomical and systematic features. Most hylids have 2n = 24, even though most of the cytogenetic data are mainly obtained based on the conventional chromosomal staining and are available for only 16% of Hypsiboas species, a genus accounting for about 10% of the hylid diversity. In this study, cytogenetic data of distinct species and populations of Hypsiboas were analyzed, and the evolutionary dynamics of chromosomal macro- and microstructure of these amphibians were discussed. Contrary to the conservativeness of 2n = 24, this genus is characterized by a high variation of chromosomal morphology with as much as 8 karyotype patterns. Differences in the number and location of nucleolus organizer regions and C-bands allowed the identification of geographical variants within nominal species and cytotaxonomical chromosomal markers. Comparative analyses revealed a strong phylogeographic relationship between chromosomal patterns in this group.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Anura / genetics*
  • Chromosomes*
  • Evolution, Molecular*
  • Karyotyping
  • Species Specificity