Genetic diversity of flat-headed vole (Alticola strelzowi (Kastschenko, 1899)) inferred from cytochrome b variation

Variation of the cytochrome b gene fragment was examined in 27 flat-headed voles Alticola strelzowi from different parts of the species range. A total of 15 haplotypes were described, while the species is characterized by low levels of genetic differentiation and polymorphism. The haplotypes form three haplogroups, one of which corresponded to the subspecies A. s. strelzowi, and the other two, to A. s. desertorum. Based on different indices, the level of genetic polymorphism in the later subspecies was considered to be higher than in the first one. Phylogeographic analysis suggested post-glacial dispersal of flat-headed voles from a single refugium located in Western Altai. Using different techniques, relatively recent colonization of the Central Altai territory was demonstrated (subspecies A. s. strelzowi), which determined low level of genetic variation in this territory.