Local Endemism Within the Western Ghats-Sri Lanka Biodiversity Hotspot

• DOI: 10.1126/science.1100167
• Publication Date: 2004-10-14T20:39:01Z
• Authors: Franky Bossuyt; Madhava Meegaskum...; Natalie Beenaerts; David J. Gower; Rohan Pethiyagoda; Kim Roelants; An Mannaert; Mark Wilkinson; Mohomed M. Bahir; Kelum Manamendra-...; Peter K. L. Ng; Christopher J. Sc...; Oommen V. Oommen; Michel C. Milinko...
• Keywords: Endemism; Biodiversity hotspot; Indian subcontinent; Mainland; Sri lanka; Marine Biodiversity

The apparent biotic affinities between the mainland and island in Western Ghats–Sri Lanka biodiversity hotspot have been interpreted as result of frequent migrations during recent periods low sea level. We show, using molecular phylogenies two invertebrate four vertebrate groups, that interchange these areas has much more limited than hitherto assumed. Despite several extended land connection past 500,000 years, Sri maintained a fauna is largely distinct from Indian mainland. Future conservation programs for subcontinent should take into account such patterns local endemism at finest scale which they may occur.