Clonal variation in the parthenogenetic rock lizard<i>Lacerta armeniaca</i>

Abstract

Genetic diversity at 35 allozyme loci was surveyed in seven populations of Lacerta armeniaca. Fixed heterozygotes were present at 16 loci, with homozygotes at 17 loci. Variation occurred at two loci, one in each of two populations, indicating one widespread clone, one restricted clone, and one apparently restricted clone. The low level of variation in this species suggests a recent restricted origin, involving few parental individuals.