Diagnosis of Eutamias obscurus (Rodentia: Sciuridae)
Callahan JR. 1977. Diagnosis of Eutamias obscurus (Rodentia: Sciuridae). Journal of Mammalogy. 58(2):188-201
This article compares and contrasts Eutamias obscurus found in Baja California to Eutamias merriami found in Southern California. Collection, field observation, and skin studies were used for discriminant analyses. The taxon Eutamias merriami (J. A. Allen) consists of two parapatric sibling species-E. obscurus (J. A. Allen) and E. merriami (sensu strictu). E. obscurus includes E. m. merriami (in part), E. m. obscurus (J. A. Allen), and E. m. meridionalis Nelson and Goldman. E. merriami (sensu strictu) includes E. m. merriami (in part), E. m. kernensis Grinnell and Storer, and E. m. pricei (J. A. Allen). The two species are distinguished by their ossa genitalia, coloration, and cranial and external measurements; two subspecies of E. obscurus also differ cytologically from E. merriami (sensu strictu). A third subspecies of obscurus, described herein, appears to have the same karyotype as does E. merriami (sensu strictu). The new subspecies and E. m. merriami coexist without intergradation at several localities in southern California. The distribution and affinities of E. obscurus are discussed. Its nearest relative appears to be E. bulleri.
- Type
- Journal Article
- Authors
- Callahan, J.
- Units
- JOTR
- Keywords
- Animal Studies, California, cranial measurements, Eutamias obscurus, Mammals (Mammalia), Rodents, skin studies