Variation in cytochrome-b haplotypes suggests a new species of Zygodontomys (Rodentia: Cricetidae) endemic to Isla Coiba, Panama

A previously undescribed species of sigmodontine rodent, endemic to Isla Coiba in Panama's Coiba National Park and its Special Zone of Marine Protection, has been identified through mitochondrial cytochrome-b gene analysis. Phylogenetic studies revealed two distinct clades within the genus Zygodontomys: one unique to Isla Coiba and another shared by populations from Isla Cébaco and the mainland Peninsula Azuero, as well as a Venezuelan sequence. This discovery suggests that the rodent population on Isla Coiba represents a novel species, highlighting the island's significant biodiversity. The research compared cytochrome-b sequences from 16 specimens across these regions to related species in GenBank, providing genetic evidence for this taxonomic distinction.

González, P., Sawyer, Y. E., Avila, M., Armién, A. G., Armién, B., & Cook, J. A. (2010). Variation in cytochrome-b haplotypes suggests a new species of Zygodontomys (Rodentia: Cricetidae) endemic to Isla Coiba, Panama. Zoologia (Curitiba), 27(4), 660–665. https://doi.org/10.1590/s1984-46702010000400014