Species limits within the Mexican garter snakes of the Thamnophis godmani complex

Authors

Douglas A. RossmanFollow
Frank T. BurbrinkFollow

Abstract

The highly variable Thamniphis godmani complex of southern Mexico, comprised of four apparently allopatric populations, was examined by using 28 morphological characters scored on 214 specimens. Character values were tested with univariate and multivariate statistics to determine if populations are morphologically distinct. The results suggest that the four populations represent independently evolving lineages. Four species, three previously undescribed, are recognized in the T. godmani complex. A lectotype is designated for T. godmani. For each species, a diagnosis description of holotype or lectotype, summary of interspecific variation, and statement of distribution are provided. Comparisons are made with T. errans, alleged to be the closest relative to members of the complex.

DOI

10.31390/opmns.079

Recommended Citation

Rossman, Douglas A. and Burbrink, Frank T. (2005) "Species limits within the Mexican garter snakes of the Thamnophis godmani complex," Occasional Papers of the Museum of Natural Science, Louisiana State University : Iss. 79 , Article 1.
DOI: 10.31390/opmns.079
Available at: https://repository.lsu.edu/opmns/vol1/iss79/1