Species of the complex Amphipholis squamata (Ophiuroidae) from Marseilles

Amphipholis squamata is a species complex made of several very divergent mitochondrial lineages. Studies on morphology and colour varieties failec to find any diagnostic characters between these lineages. In this study, we assessed the number of lineages of the; species complex present at Les Goudes (French Mediterranean coast) using mitochondrial DNA markers. Then, in order to check for reproductive isolation between lineages, we used nuclear DNA markers. The results revealed five species in the phylogenetic sense corresponding to four species in the "biological species concept" because of the lack of gene exchange. Also, the total lack of heterozygote individuals suggested high selfing rates. From these results, questions arise on the reproductive and colonization strategies of this species complex.