A new species of the genus Achondrostoma Robalo, Almada, Levy & Doadrio, 2007 (Actynopterigii, Cyprinidae) from western Spain

Abstract

A new freshwater fish species, Achondrostoma salmantinum, formerly considered as one population of Iberochondrostoma lemmingii, is described on the basis of genetic and morphological characters. The new species inhabits the rivers Huebra, Agueda and Uces and tributaries in the Duero River basin in Salamanca province, westem Spain. The species is distinguished from Iberochondrostoma lemmingii and from other specíes of the genus Achondrostoma according to morphometric, meristic and genetic characters such a narrow caudal peduncle, long postorbital and head lengths, small number of scales (9-10/44-53/4-6), small number of gui rakers (15-22), usually 5-5 pharyngeal teeth, four diagnostic isozyme loci (IDHP2*, IDHP3*, MDHB* and PEP*) and one unique allele (MDHA*95). The distribution of 1. lemmingii is currently known to be restricted to Tajo, Guadiana, Odiel and Guadalquivir basins. This new cyprinid is considered Endangered (EN) according to IUCN Red List Categories.