Multiple introductions of Pristurus geckos (Reptilia: Sphaerodactylidae) on Masirah Island, Oman
The spread of non-native species driven by globalization and increased transport connectivity poses a significant threat to island ecosystems, where native biotas are particularly vulnerable. Here, we report evidence for multiple human-mediated introductions of geckos belonging to the Pristurus rupe...
| Autores: | , , , , , , , , |
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| Tipo de recurso: | artículo |
| Fecha de publicación: | 2026 |
| País: | España |
| Institución: | Varias* (Consorci de Biblioteques Universitáries de Catalunya, Centre de Serveis Científics i Acadèmics de Catalunya) |
| Repositorio: | Recercat. Dipósit de la Recerca de Catalunya |
| OAI Identifier: | oai:dnet:recercat____::e4378f2644d0f1eea7f9a62db009d582 |
| Acceso en línea: | https://hdl.handle.net/2072/489553 https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jaridenv.2026.105626 |
| Access Level: | acceso abierto |
| Palabra clave: | Rèptils Gekko Ecologia de les illes Espècies invasores Oman Orient Mitjà Aràbia 59 |
| Sumario: | The spread of non-native species driven by globalization and increased transport connectivity poses a significant threat to island ecosystems, where native biotas are particularly vulnerable. Here, we report evidence for multiple human-mediated introductions of geckos belonging to the Pristurus rupestris species complex to Masirah Island, an arid island off the coast of Oman. Phylogenetic analyses based on the mitochondrial 12S rRNA gene from seven specimens collected at the port city of Dhuwwah revealed the presence of P. rupestris sensu stricto and P. omanensis, with individuals assigned to several deeply divergent mainland lineages. The lack of monophyly among Masirah specimens and the absence of private haplotypes are consistent with a scenario involving multiple independent introductions rather than a single colonization event. Genetic identity with mainland populations, together with the proximity of the discovery site to a major ferry port, further suggests human transport and urban environments as likely dispersal pathways. These introductions raise concerns regarding potential ecological impacts on the island's endemic fauna, particularly Pristurus masirahensis. Our findings underscore the importance of early detection and targeted monitoring to better understand and manage biological invasions in insular systems. |
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