Genetic Variation Across Lagostomus maximus’ Geographical Distribution in Argentina

Studying the amount and pattern of genetic diversity within and between populations is one of the central aims of population genetics. However, the population genetic structure of many species, including Lagostomus maximus, is currently poorly understood. The analysis of the mitochondrial DNA control region reveals low levels of genetic variation in L. maximus populations throughout Argentina. Despite the recognition of three morphologically distinct subspecies in Argentina, and the species’ tendency for philopatry among females and the average home range of the species of 1.3 ha, a single widely distributed population inhabits Argentina. Metapopulation processes and changes in human population dynamics in the late Holocene may have played a role in shaping the population genetic structure of L. maximus in Argentina.