Morphometrics of Graomys (Rodentia, Cricetidae) from Central-Western Argentina

Abstract

In this study, we analyzed the morphometric variation of G. centralis from central-western Argentina, where the main studies of the genus were conducted, and distinguished that species from G. griseoflavus specimens. This discrimination, however, was possible mainly because of size differences; therefore, other methods, such geometric morphometrics, should be implemented to detect slight differences due to shape changes. In addition, the karyotypes of animals from Cruz del Eje, type locality of G. centralis, are provided for the first time. A comprehensive morphometric study of individuals representing the complete genus and the range of distribution in South America may clarify the species taxonomy.