Phylogeographic patterns in populations of the black-chinned tilapia complex (Teleostei, Cichlidae) from coastal areas in West Africa: support for the refuge zone theory.

Within the tilapiines, a major African cichlid lineage, quite limited genetic informations are available on phylogenetic interrelationships and phylogeographical patterns at both macro- and micro-evolutionary scales. The present study examines the genetic diversity of the black-chinned tilapia complex from coastal areas in West Africa (Senegal to Congo-Brazzaville) based on mtDNA control region sequences. Phylogenetic inferences provide support for the monophyly of both taxa involved.