A new karyotype for the spiny rat Clyomys laticeps (Thomas, 1909) (Rodentia, Echimyidae) from Central Brazil

Clyomys Thomas, 1916 is a semifossorial rodent genus of spiny rats represented by only one species, C. laticeps, which inhabits the tropical savannas and grasslands of central Brazil and eastern Paraguay. Here we describe a new karyotype of C. laticeps found in populations of Emas National Park, Goias state, Brazil. The four analyzed specimens had a diploid number (2n) of 32 and a fundamental autosome number (FN) of 54. Cytogenetic data include conventional staining, CBG and GTG-banding. The karyotype presents 12 meta/submetacentric pairs (1 to 12) and 3 pairs of acrocentrics (13 to 15) with gradual decrease in size. The X chromosome is a medium submetacentric and the Y is a medium acrocentric. The semifossorial habits together with habitat specificity could have contributed to the karyological variations found on this genus.

Fundacao O Boticario de Protecao a Natureza/MacArthur Foundation

Fundacao O Boticario de Protecao a Natureza/MacArthur Foundation

Wildlife Conservation Society

Wildlife Conservation Society

BP Conservation/BirdLife International/Fauna and Flora International

BP Conservation/BirdLife International/Fauna and Flora International

Conservation International do Brasil/AnhauserBush

Conservation International do Brasil/Anhauser-Bush

Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Cientifico e Tecnologico (CNPq) [CNPq Procs. 150599/2008-0, 300664/2008-7]

Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Cientifico e Tecnologico (CNPq)

IBAMA [proc. 02001.001282/97-01, license 056/1999]

IBAMA