AMAZING ANGUIDS: THE NORTHERN ALLIGATOR LIZARD (ELGARIA COERULEA) AND BEYOND

Brian R Lavin; Sonoma State University; lavin@sonoma.edu;

Genetic Patterns in the Northern Alligator Lizard (Elgaria coerulea) are examined for approximately 180 individuals with mtDNA and nuclear DNA and possible environmental causes of biogeographic patterns are examined. The Northern Alligator Lizard is then examined in context of what is known from other alligator lizards (Elgaria sp.) and Anguid lizards (Anniella sp.) in Western North America. Western North American Patterns are then expanded to briefly examine if they hold for Anguid Lizards outside of North America (Anguinae). The potential of climate change on Anguid Lizards are discussed in light of past biogeographical patterns.

Molecular Ecology and Wildlife Conservation Genetics     Student Paper