Diversity patterns and evolutionary history of Arabian squamates

• DOI: 10.1111/jbi.14070
• Publication Date: 2021-03-05T19:02:40Z
• Authors: Jiří Šmíd; Roberto Sindaco; Mohammed Shobrak; Salem Busais; Karin Tamar; Tatiana Aghová; Marc Simó‐Riudalbas; Pedro Tarroso; Philippe Geniez; Pierre‐André Crochet; Johannes Els; Bernat Burriel‐Ca...; Héctor Tejero‐Cic...; Salvador Carranza
• Keywords: Endemism; Phylogenetic diversity; Peninsula

Abstract Aim Deserts are generally perceived as areas of low diversity, and hence receive little attention from researchers conservationists. Squamates the dominant group vertebrates in arid regions, such represent an ideal model to study biodiversity patterns these areas. We examine spatial evolutionary history endemism terrestrial squamates Arabian Peninsula test hypotheses on role topography isolation so identify possible environmental drivers diversification. Location The Peninsula. Taxon Squamate reptiles (Squamata; lizards snakes). Methods generated distribution maps for all squamate species (including yet undescribed) reconstructed their phylogenetic relationships using existing newly produced genetic data nearly species. assessed richness, diversity across peninsula that could be considered or endemicity hotspots squamates. evaluated community turnover affecting a regression framework. Results main mostly along mountains rim while most arid, central regions support mirrors richness. Phylogenetic is also highest mountains, especially when only endemic analysed. deserts northern Arabia poor terms richness they show connectivity peninsular communities. Topographic heterogeneity strongest predictor squamates, followed by elevation. There no correlation between temperature. Main conclusions rich unique communities dominated local radiations closely related narrow‐ranging In particular, Asir Mountains SW Arabia, Dhofar Province Oman Hajar UAE unprecedented levels endemism. While many generalist range number shared mainland Asia, indicating effective fauna. heterogeneous, topographically complex habitats.