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.

Natural history of Valentin's rock lizard (Darevskia valentini) in Armenia.

Valentin's rock lizard () is suggested to be the parent for several parthenogenetic species (e.g., , , and ) that evolved through hybridization.