COI gene sequences confirm the taxonomic validity of the tooth-carp <i>Aphaniops hormuzensis</i> (Teleostei: Aphaniidae) from southern Iran

The taxonomic validity of the recently described endemic species Aphaniops hormuzensis (Cyprinodontiformes: Aphaniidae) from southern Iran has been questioned as its original description did not include data another species, i.e. A. kruppi eastern Oman. Because absence mitochondrial COI gene sequences, was also included in recent phylogenetic studies. We therefore generated for and used new to construct a tree that (amongst other species). Bayesian Maximum likelihood analyses reveal both are monophyletic, with high support values. conclude is valid which distinct ginaonis, tooth-carp Iran. Our results add further distinctness