Phylogeography of cliff racer (Platyceps rhodorachis Jan, 1865) from Punjab, Pakistan

Abstract The present study reports the existence of cliff racer, Platyceps rhodorachis from plains Punjab, Pakistan. A total 10 specimens were captured during field surveys June to September, 2018 different sites Punjab. was identify on basis morphology and confirmed through COI gene sequences. obtained DNA sequences have shown reliable exact species identification. Newly produced submitted GenBank accession numbers (MK936174.1, MK941839.1 MT790210.1). N-J tree based clearly separated as out-group with other members family Colubridae p-distance. intra-specific genetic variation ranges 12% 18%. kashmirensis, ladacensis, ventromaculatus, ventromaculatus bengalensis indusai are not available at NCBI validate their taxonomic positions. In our recommendations, a large scale molecular identification Pakistan’s herpetofauna is required report more new or subspecies country.