Rodents of the eastern and western slopes of the Tropical Andes: phylogenetic and taxonomic insights using DNA barcodes

A groundbreaking study using DNA barcoding reveals that the eastern and western slopes of the Tropical Andes, particularly within Sangay National Park and Otonga, harbor distinct rodent species with minimal overlap. Only one species, Microryzomys minutus, was found to be shared between these regions, challenging current distribution assumptions for Akodon mollis and Chilomys instans, which may represent separate species. The research also suggests that Mesomys populations on the eastern slopes are genetically consistent with those in the Ecuadorian Amazon, indicating a single species. Additionally, it highlights potential new species within Mindomys and Nephelomys genera, emphasizing the need for further taxonomic research. This study underscores the Andes' biodiversity hotspot status and provides critical genetic data to accelerate taxonomic discoveries and understanding of evolutionary patterns.

Pinto, C. M., Ojala-Barbour, R., Brito, J., Menchaca, A., Carvalho, A. L. G., Weksler, M., Amato, G., & Lee Jr., T. E. (2018). Rodents of the eastern and western slopes of the Tropical Andes: phylogenetic and taxonomic insights using DNA barcodes. Therya, 9(1), 15–27. https://doi.org/10.12933/therya-18-430