Master's Theses

Department

Biology

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Abstract

The taxonomic relationship of two supposed species of Geomys in northern Kansas was assessed using morphometric, bacular, karyotypic, and electrophoretic analyses. Only morphometric analysis proved useful in differentiating between the taxa. No evidence of morphometric intergradations was found in Kansas even though the taxa were sampled within three mile of one another. Populations of the same taxa in a zone of contact in Nebraska were distinct morphometrically, karyologically, and electrophoretically, but all three methods suggested introgression between the taxa. The number of specimens collected in the zone was insufficient to determine if there was concordance among methods in defining introgression. Potential inability for morphometrics and standard karylolgy to assess the degree of introgression in Nebraska and the lack of correlation between zones of contact in Kansas and Nebraska suggest the two taxa should be regarded as subspecies of G. bursarius rather than distinct species.

Advisor

Jerry R. Choate

Date of Award

Fall 1983

Document Type

Thesis - campus only access

Rights

© 1983 Jay C. Burns

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