What recent taxonomic change elevated *Cebus imitator* from a subspecies to a distinct species?
Answer
Genetic studies revealing significant divergence from *C. capucinus*
The transition of *Cebus imitator* from being classified as a subspecies under *C. capucinus* to being recognized as a full, distinct species was driven by advancements in molecular biology and genetic analysis. These studies demonstrated that the genetic divergence between *C. imitator* and *C. capucinus* was substantial enough to warrant separate species designation. This level of genetic separation exceeded the typical thresholds used to differentiate established species pairs, providing phylogenetic evidence that they represent distinct evolutionary trajectories despite morphological similarities.
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