Akademik Veri Yönetim Sistemi
JOURNAL OF ZOOLOGICAL SYSTEMATICS AND EVOLUTIONARY RESEARCH, cilt.2024, sa.1, ss.1-14, 2024 (SCI-Expanded)
Understanding the genetic structure and phylogeographic patterns of Scarturus species is crucial for accurately delineating theirtaxonomic status and informing conservation strategies. This study explores the genetic differentiation of Scarturus williamsi,S. aulacotis, and S. elater species complex across Turkish populations by analyzing mitochondrial (Cytb, 12S rRNA, and 16S rRNA)and nuclear (IRBP) gene sequences. Our phylogenetic analyses have firmly established the monophyly and distinct species status ofS. williamsi and S. aulacotis (formerly known as S. euphraticus), challenging previous subspecies classifications. Within S. williamsi,we identified five distinct lineages from Cytb sequences, illustrating a complex population structure shaped by geographical andecological factors. Notably, the Niğde population emerged as a unique and ancient lineage, likely influenced by historical isolation.Our findings further indicate that S. aulacotis encompasses two divergent lineages, one spanning Syrian samples and the otherTurkish and Iranian samples, both now classified under the revised taxonomy of S. aulacotis. Analysis of the S. elater speciescomplex unveiled three distinct subclades, with the Turkish population aligning closely with Iranian and Armenian samples,identified as S. indicus aralychensis within the S. indicus superspecies.