Abstract:
Using non-destructive sampling we provide further genetic characterisations for
spiny mice (Acomys dimidiatus/cahirinus) and gerbils (Gerbillus sp.) in three regions
in Saudi Arabia. All individuals were sequenced for a fragment of the cytochrome b
gene, and compared against available conspecifics and closely related taxa. We confirm
the existence of a second Acomys dimidiatus/cahirinus lineage specific to the
Arabian Peninsula as seen previously. The Arabian Gerbillus nanus is shown to
group with Middle Eastern rather than African conspecifics. A second cryptic Gerbillus
lineage was also sampled across multiple locations, which may be an uncharacterised
G. dasyurus.
