Phylogeographic uniformity in mitochondrial DNA of the snapping turtle (Chelydra serpentina)

• DOI: 10.1111/j.1469-1795.1998.tb00226.x
• Publication Date: 2006-02-28T15:44:55Z
• Authors: DeEtte Walker; Paul E. Moler; Kurt A. Buhlmann; John C. Avise
• Keywords: Chelydra; mtDNA control region

Abstract Previous studies have revealed considerable genetic variation, geographic localization, and genealogical depth for mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) haplotypes within each of several species freshwater turtles in the south‐eastern United States America. Here we report a notable exception to such phylogeographic patterns. In control‐region sequences 66 snapping ( Chelydra serpentina ) collected from 10 states, single mtDNA haplotype predominated two rare variants detected were nearly identical common genotype. This pattern low variation lack appreciable population structure is extremely unusual widely distributed animal species. For purposes taxonomy conservation, these findings suggest presence only one ‘evolutionarily significant unit' C. this otherwise phylogeographically rich region country. Possible explanations turtle are considered.