Towards resolving taxonomic uncertainties in wolf, dog and jackal lineages of Africa, Eurasia and Australasia

Successful conservation depends on accurate taxonomy. Currently, the taxonomy of canids in Africa, Eurasia and Australasia is unstable as recent molecular morphological studies have questioned earlier phenetic classifications. We review available information several taxa Old World Australasian Canis with phylogenetic uncertainties (namely, African jackals, Asian wolves dogs), order to assess validity suggested scientific names provide a basis for reaching taxonomic consensus primarily based data, but also including morphology, biogeography behavioural ecology. identify major knowledge gaps, recommendations future research discuss implications an updated framework. Recent indicate that former Afro-Eurasian ‘golden jackal’ represents two distinct lineages, golden jackal (Canis aureus) from wolf (C. lupaster) Africa. Phylogenetic indicates side-striped black-backed jackals form monophyletic group branched than Canis, Cuon Lycaon, which should be reassigned genus Lupulella L. adusta mesomelas, respectively. The Himalayan/Tibetan Indian lineages appear diverged are all other grey lupus) mitochondrial nuclear genome data. However, until genome-wide data multiple individuals across range clarify relationships taxa, we suggest referring lineage lupus chanco. support currently accepted nomenclature pallipes populations found subcontinent possibly south-western Asia (exact geographical boundary pending). presented here provides current consistent framework use by conservationists practitioners, it intended stimulate further resolve affecting canids.