Aldolase DNA polymorphism in subterranean mole-rats: genetic differentiation and environmental correlates

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Abstract
We analysed the genetic diversity and environmental correlates of the aldolase A and B genes by means of restriction endonucleases (DNA RFLP analysis), in the four chromosomal species (2n =52, 54, 58 and 60) of the actively speciating subterranean mole-rats of the Spalax ehrenbergi superspecies in Israel. The results indicated that: (i) both aldolase genes are highly polymorphic; (ii) Fragment frequencies and fragment profiles display geographical patterns and significant ecological correlates; (iii) discriminant analysis largely succeeded in separating the four chromosomal species on the basis of variation of aldolase RFLPs.