The Maipo River as a biogeographical barrier to Liolaemus monticola (Tropiduridae) in the mountain ranges of central Chile

Abstract

Univariate and multivariate statistical analyses of 39 meristic characters recorded for 12 samples of the lizard Liolaemus monticola were used to compare geographical variation in morphology with chromosomal races north and south of the Maipo River in central Chile. This extends a previous morphological study in the Andes Range and confirms that the Maipo River is a biogeographical barrier that also separates chromosomal races in the Coast Range. The phenetic variation among samples is sufficient to differentiate the chromosomal races, and also distinguishes populations of the Coast Range from those of the Andes within chromosomal races. A possible historical sequence of events that accounts for the pattern of morphological differentiation is advanced.