What scientific advancement drove the splitting of the formerly massive genus *Cnemidophorus* into smaller genera like *Aspidoscelis*?
Answer
Deeper genetic sequencing
The major taxonomic reshuffling that involved splitting the large genus *Cnemidophorus* was primarily motivated by modern molecular techniques. Specifically, deeper genetic sequencing provided the necessary data to reveal that the original grouping was non-monophyletic, meaning that not all members descended from a single common ancestor within that genus grouping. This revelation necessitated the creation of new, smaller genera, such as *Aspidoscelis*, to accurately reflect the true evolutionary relationships between these reptiles. This reliance on genetic data over purely morphological observation is typical of contemporary systematic biology, often requiring updates to older field guides.
Related Questions
To which Family do whiptail lizards, celebrated for their speed and long tails, generally belong?What scientific advancement drove the splitting of the formerly massive genus *Cnemidophorus* into smaller genera like *Aspidoscelis*?What unique reproductive method characterizes some populations of the Desert Grassland Whiptail Lizard (*Cnemidophorus uniparens*)?What characteristics distinguish Suborder Lacertilia (Sauria) lizards, including the whiptails, from snakes?Which Kingdom classification signifies that whiptails are multicellular, heterotrophic organisms sharing fundamental animal life characteristics?Which genus typically encompasses many North American whiptail species, such as the Arizona Whiptail (*A. arizonae*), post-taxonomic split?What is the Global Conservation Status Rank (G-Rank) assigned to *Aspidoscelis gularis* (Texas Spotted Whiptail) by NatureServe?Which Phylum classification signifies that whiptails are connected to vertebrates because they possess a notochord at some developmental stage?What is the taxonomic distinction between the Order Squamata and the Suborder Lacertilia regarding reptile groups?Which group, *Aspidoscelis* or *Cnemidophorus*, often favors more sparsely vegetated, rocky slopes in northern ranges like Utah, aligning with modern generic grouping?