Genetics of hybridization between the pocket gophers Thomomys bottae and Thomomys townsendii in northeastern California

Authors

James L. Patton, University of California, Berkeley
Margaret F. Smith, University of California, Berkeley
Roger D. Price, University of Minnesota, St. Paul
Ronald A. Hellenthal, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, Indiana

Abstract

Hybridization between the pocket gophers Thomomys bottae and T. townsendii at Gold Run Creek in Honey Lake Valley, Lassen County, California, is examined by electromorphic and morphologic characters and by the distribution of ectoparasitic mallophagan lice. Hybrid formation is minimal (about 12% of the total sample of 104 individuals examined), but both F₁ hybrids and a few presumptive backcross individuals are apparent. Nevertheless, no evidence of genic introgression based on five diagnostic allozyme loci is present in parental populations of either taxon within a mile of the hybrid zone. Similarly, louse species unique to each parental gopher host do not penetrate beyond the geographic limits of the genetic hybrid zone into the range of the opposite gopher species. A narrow zone of hybridization is thus concordantly defined by genetic, morphologic, and ectoparasitic parameters. These two gopher taxa are thus genetically if not reproductively isolated and should be considered separate biological species.

Recommended Citation

Patton, James L.; Smith, Margaret F.; Price, Roger D.; and Hellenthal, Ronald A. (1984) "Genetics of hybridization between the pocket gophers Thomomys bottae and Thomomys townsendii in northeastern California," Great Basin Naturalist: Vol. 44: No. 3, Article 5.
Available at: https://scholarsarchive.byu.edu/gbn/vol44/iss3/5