Biology ETDs

Publication Date

5-30-1968

Abstract

The geographic variation of Perognathus apache Merriam in New Mexico was investigated to determine the relationship of P. apache to P. flavescens Merriam and the relationships of the subspecies of P. apache to each other. Skin and skull measurements of adult specimens were analyzed statistically. Relative color values for adult specimens were estimated by selecting two individuals as color standards and comparing the other specimens with the standards. Apache pocket mice from southwestern New Mexico were found to be closer in size and proportions to the smaller P. flavescens from eastern New Mexico than to the larger Apache pocket mice from northwestern New Mexico. A change in dimensions occurs between the vicinities of Engle and Socorro, an area from which no specimens are extant. This represents a probable zone of intergradation between P. apache and P. flavescens. The color of P. apache was found to be correlated with the soil color upon which individuals were collected. Precipitation is a primary factor in this correlation. The described subspecies of P. apache occurring in New Mexico do not accurately reflect the observed variation. The darkest subspecies. P. a. relictus, was found to be a non­phyletic group of discontinuous populations that have their closest relationships to intervening populations of lighter colored individuals.

Project Sponsors

The Office of Education, U.S. Department of Health, Education, Welfare in the form of an NDEA Title IV Fellowship

Language

English

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Biology

Level of Degree

Masters

Department Name

UNM Biology Department

First Committee Member (Chair)

James Smith Findley

Second Committee Member

Marvin LeRoy Riedesel

Third Committee Member

Gordon Verle Johnson

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