Complex biogeographical distribution of genetic variation within Podarcis wall lizards across the Strait of Gibraltar

Abstract
Aim  To examine the effect of a known geological barrier on genetic variation within a wall lizard species complex.Location  The Iberian Peninsula and North Africa.Methods  Sequencing of partial 12S rRNA and cytochrome b mtDNA.Results  The current distribution of genetic variability is not related to the opening of the Strait of Gibraltar.Conclusions  Podarcis hispanica in North Africa is probably a species complex. The Strait of Gibraltar should not be used as a known barrier to gene flow in other land based organisms without careful sampling to test for multiple crossings since its formation.

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