Evolutionary processes and its environmental correlates in the cranial morphology of western chipmunks (Tamias)

• DOI: 10.1111/evo.13137
• Publication Date: 2016-12-05T06:53:50Z
• Authors: Ana Paula A. Assis; Daniela M. Rossoni; James L. Patton; Gabriel Marroig
• Keywords: Lineage (genetic); Adaptive Radiation; Subgenus; Genetic drift

The importance of the environment in shaping phenotypic evolution lies at core evolutionary biology. Chipmunks genus Tamias (subgenus Neotamias) are part a very recent radiation, occupying wide range environments with marked niche partitioning among species. One open question is if and how those differences affected this lineage. Herein we examine relative genetic drift versus natural selection origin cranial diversity exhibited by clade members. We also explore degree to which variation potential selective agents (environmental variables) correlated patterns morphological presented. found that cannot explain diversification group, thus supporting role as predominant force during Neotamias diversification, although strength varied greatly This turn, was environmental conditions, suggesting possible causal relationship. These results underscore extant represent radiation aspects might have acted driving species' divergence.