AbstractIn this study, we investigate the identity and origin of a population of Iberian Wall Lizards (Podarcis hispanicus complex) that we recently discovered inside the distribution range of the nominotypical form P. hispanicus. In the field, these animals were clearly identified as different from this species but their identity remained problematic. Using morphological and mitochondrial DNA analyses, we here identify this population as P. vaucheri, which constitutes a significant range extension for this species. Molecular results suggest a North African origin to this population. However, according to morphological results, these individuals are closer to the Spanish morphotype than to the North African morphotypes of P. vaucheri. Taken together, these results suggest a human-mediated introduction as the origin of this population, with local adaptation or phenotypic plasticity responsible of phenotypic convergence.
Response: Genetic Data and the African Origin of Humans
