Genetic variation in seven goby species (Perciformes : Gobiidae) assessed by electrophoresis and taxonomic inference

Data on the electrophoretic patterns of 20 enzyme loci were used to investi gate relationships among seven Mediterranean goby species. The study eviden ced different levels of genetic variability among the species. On the whole , the degrees of genetic differentiation were consistent with the current t axonomic recognition of species and genera. Phenetic and phylogenetic analy ses agreed in clustering the samples in three groups, i.e. the Gobius (incl uding Zosterisessor ophiocephalus), the Lesueurigobius species and Pomatosc histus minutus. The taxa analysed probably evolved following the complex ge ological and climatic events that have been affecting the Mediterranean bas in ever since the Miocene.