Allozymic variability and biogeographic relationships in two Leuciscus species complexes (Cyprinidae) from southern Europe, with the rehabilitation of the genus Telestes Bonaparte

Genetic variability was assessed in eight populations belonging to the Leuciscus souffia complex and in nine populations of Leuciscus cephalus, sampled in France, Italy and Greece and in one population of Leuciscus lucumonis, endemic to Italy. Twenty-six enzymatic loci were analysed in order to clarify the genetic relationships, the patterns of colonisation of peri-Mediterranean area and the taxonomic positions. Results indicate a more ancient penetration of the Leuciscus souffia complex in southern Europe (possibly during the Messinian 'Lago Mare' phase of the Mediterranean), whereas L. cephalus and L. lucumonis seem to have quite recently reached these regions (about 1Myr). These evidences are discussed in relation to the two main proposed models of primary freshwater fishes colonisation of peri-Mediterranean area. In addition, the genetic distance suggests a generic separation between the two complexes. The genus Telestes Bonaparte, is rehabilitated to include members of the Leuciscus souffia complex which is represented by endemic taxa from southern France, Italy and western Balkans.