Abstract

BREITMAN, María Florencia et al. Lagartijas de la provincia de Santa Cruz, Argentina: distribución geográfica, diversidad genética y estado de conservación. Cuad. herpetol. [online]. 2014, vol.28, n.2, pp.83-110. ISSN 1852-5768.

In this paper we present a revision of the geographic distribution, genetic characteristics and conservation status of lizards from the Santa Cruz province. We summarize the state-of-the-art in herpetological research, as well as future directions for research in this province. We present an updated checklist using ~1500 records of lizards, and include distributional maps, species photographs, comments on genetic variability and the conservation status of all recognized taxa. Twenty-nine species of lizards (27 species and two subspecies) are cited for this territory, although three of them lack of recent references, and from the genetic patterns we identify at least ten candidate species. These are defined as non-described lineages characterized by sufficient genetic differentiation to likely represent new species, but intensive taxonomic work is needed in order to confirm their specific status. In combining traditional information presented in checklists with genetic data, distributional patterns, and conservation status, we hope that this novel data integration approach will lead other investigators to develop similar studies. These types of studies represent the first step towards identification of priority conservation areas, as well as identification of those that are more appropriate for intense anthropogenic use; moreover this study will accelerate the description of new taxa, thereby filling gaps in alpha taxonomic knowledge.

Keywords : Check list; Liolaemini; Patagonia; Genetic patterns; Alfa taxonomy.

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