Biochemical Differentiation in Japanese Newts, Genus Cynops (Salamandridae)

Abstract

Genetic variation was surveyed in 38 populations of Japanese newts of the genus Cynops using starch gel eletrophoresis. C. ensicauda from the Ryuku Archipelago was shown to be genetically well differentiated from C. pyrrhogaster from the Japanese main islands. Separation of these two forms at the species level is supported. C. ensicauda is genetically divided into two groups, each of which corresponds to previously recognized subspecies. On the contrary, protein variation patterns in C. pyrrhogaster are not consistent with the previously recognized subspecies or local races. From available geological information, the electrophoretic clock is calibrated at 1D = 13-22 MY in Japanese Cynops.