Resumen

MONTERRUBIO-RICO, Tiberio C. et al. Photographic, biological and genetic evidences of the presence of jaguaroundi (Puma yagouaroundi) at the moment in Michoacán, Mexico. Rev. Mex. Biodiv. [online]. 2012, vol.83, n.3, pp.825-833. ISSN 2007-8706.  https://doi.org/10.7550/rmb.28663.

The jaguaroundi is one of the least studied felids on the American continent, despite its wide neotropical distribution. Genetic studies concerning the species are also inexistent. For the state of Michoacán, it has always been assumed as present, since the distribution maps for the species in Mexico include the state, but only one record existed from 1970. Combining survey methods (camera traps, skulls and tissue found in the field, and transects) and molecular genotyping, we obtained photographic, biological and genetic evidence that confirms the actual presence of the jaguaroundi (Puma yagouaroundi) in 3 regions of Michoacán, Mexico. Eleven records were obtained from 7 localities that present tropical forests. Seven photographic records revealed that the species main activity period is during the afternoon, that both pelage phases occur in the state with a greater proportion in the clear pelage phase, and that breeding activity occurs in the state. Based on the distance and independence among Arteaga and Lázaro Cárdenas records, we hypothesize a continuous distribution of a population along the Sierra Madre del Sur and Pacific coast of Michoacán. We are unaware if a continuous distribution occurs as well along the Balsas basin. 1 089 and 1 096 pb cytochrome b gene sequences were obtained and constitute the longest sequences reported for the species in Mexico and to the north of the continent. The sequences also revealed the presence of 2 distinct haplotypes. The presence of species in 3 regions and the presence of 2 haplotypes allow us to hipothezise that in Michoacán the species may possess important genetic diversity, although a greater sample size is required for confirmation. The sequences obtained will allow the comparison with individuals from other regions of the country in order to increase the knowledge on the species genetic variability, and will provide support for the identification of populations of conservation interest.

Palabras llave : observed distribution; Felidae; haplotypes; onza.

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