Hidden molecular diversity in Zungaro

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Pires, A.A., Ramirez, J.L., Galetti, P.M., Troy, W.P., & Freitas, P.D. Molecular analysis reveals hidden diversity in Zungaro (Siluriformes: Pimelodidade): a genus of giant South American catfish. Genetica (2017). doi:10.1007/s10709-017-9968-8.

https://link.springer.com/article/10.10 ... 017-9968-8

ABSTRACT
The genus

Zungaro

contains some of the largest catfish in South America. Two valid species are currently recognized:

Zungaro jahu

, inhabiting the Paraná and Paraguay basins, and

Zungaro zungaro

, occurring in the Amazonas and Orinoco basins. Analysing Zungaro specimens from the Amazonas, Orinoco, Paraguay and Paraná basins, based on the sequencing of COI and D-loop, we found at least three MOTUs, indicating the existence of hidden diversity within this fish group. Considering the ecological and economic values of this fish, our results are surely welcomed for its conservation, disclosing new findings on its diversity and pointing out the necessity for a detailed taxonomic revision.

• Keywords: DNA barcode, Fish taxonomy, Neotropical fish, Juruena river, Amazon