A revised taxonomy and estimate of species diversity for western North American Lampetra

Abstract Lampreys are an ancient lineage of jawless fish for which the relationships among some lineages uncertain. We addressed these information gaps Lampetra species with a focus on western North America. Phylogenetic analysis using all publicly available sequences two mitochondrial genes— cyt b and COI —supported designation American as distinct genus from in Europe, Asia, eastern Species delimitation identified seven species, only three currently recognized. ayresii L. richardsoni , regarded separate under “paired concept,” were not genetically distinct; we recommend synonymizing because latter has precedence, yet continuing to recognize each ecotype its current common name. Other than widespread clade, other exhibited limited ranges often restricted one or locations. Within headwaters Willamette River, demonstrated strong genetic structure lack gene flow subbasins, indicating that subbasin scale may represent appropriate management unit. However, areas differ based evolutionary histories flow. Subsequent work is needed across America better delineate aforementioned evaluate whether unrecognized taxa this be present.