Uncovering the diversity of endemic Ethiopian fauna: complete mitochondrial genomes of four species (Rodentia, Muridae).

Complete mitochondrial genomes of four species of Ethiopian speckled brush-furred rats (, , and ) were assembled for the first time. We provide data concerning the sequencing, assembly, and annotation of the obtained mitogenomes; compare two widely used circular-genome annotation tools (MITOS and MitoZ), and discuss relevant points concerning relationships within both Ethiopian and the Muridae family.

Complex reticulate evolution of speckled brush-furred rats (Lophuromys) in the Ethiopian centre of endemism.

The Ethiopian highlands represent a remarkable biodiversity 'hot spot' with a very high number of endemic species, even among vertebrates. Ethiopian representatives of a species complex of speckled brush-furred rats (Lophuromys flavopunctatus sensu lato) inhabit highland habitats ranging from low-elevation forests to Afroalpine grasslands. These may serve as a suitable model for understanding evolutionary processes leading to high genetic and ecological diversity in montane biodiversity hot spots.

Morphological Variability of the Mandible Shape of the Common Vole Microtus arvalis (Rodentia, Arvicolidae) Semi-species from the Hybrid Zone.

The mandible shape of the common vole semi-species from the hybrid zone was studied for the first time using the methods of geometric morphometry. The hybrid specimens were found to display high morphological variability being closer to the parental Microtus obscurus than to M. arvalis form.

Adaptation of Rodents Living in a Highland: Combination of Mitochondrial Introgression and Convergent Molecular Evolution.

Populations of four species of narrow-headed rats of the genus Stenocephalemys were examined for the presence of a mutation in the mitochondrial cytochrome b gene resulting in an amino acid substitution in the translated protein. This substitution was also found in hamsters of the subfamily Sigmodontinae inhabiting the highlands of the Andes. Simulation of three-dimensional structure of the protein showed that this substitution is located in the active site and may have a functional significance.

Reticulate Pleistocene evolution of Ethiopian rodent genus along remarkable altitudinal gradient.

The Ethiopian highlands are the most extensive complex of mountainous habitats in Africa. The presence of the Great Rift Valley (GRV) and the striking elevational ecological gradients inhabited by recently radiated Ethiopian endemics, provide a wide spectrum of model situations for evolutionary studies. The extant species of endemic rodents, often markedly phenotypically differentiated, are expected to possess complex genetic features which evolved asa consequence of the interplay between geomorphology and past climatic changes.