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 Leuc iscus souffia complex and in nine populations of Leuciscus cephalus, sample d in France, Italy and Greece and in one population of Leuciscus lucumonis, endemic to Italy. Twenty-six enzymatic loci were analysed in order to clar ify the genetic relationships, the patterns of colonisation of peri-Mediter ranean area and the taxonomic positions. Results indicate a more ancient pe netration of the Leuciscus souffia complex in southern Europe (possibly dur ing the,Messinian "Lago Mare" phase of the Mediterranean), whereas L. cepha lus and L. lucumonis seem to have quite recently reached these regions (abo ut 1Myr). These evidences are discussed in relation to the two main propose d models of primary freshwater fishes colonisation of peri-Mediterranean ar ea. In addition, the genetic distance suggests a generic separation between the two complexes. The genus Telestes Bonaparte, is rehabilitated to inclu de members of the Leuciscus souffia complex which is represented by endemic taxa from southern France, Italy and western Balkans.