Hemoglobin polymorphism in the encinal mouse, Peromyscus pectoralis.

Area of Science:

• Genetics
• Zoology
• Biochemistry

Background:

• The encinal mouse (Peromyscus pectoralis) is a rodent species found in North America.
• Hemoglobin variation can be a useful marker for studying population genetics and evolutionary processes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the hemoglobin phenotypes in natural populations of the encinal mouse.
• To determine the genetic basis of hemoglobin variation in this species.

Main Methods:

• Horizontal starch gel electrophoresis was used to analyze hemoglobin.
• Samples were collected from natural populations in northeastern Mexico, Texas, Oklahoma, and other parts of Mexico.

Main Results:

• Five distinct hemoglobin phenotypes were identified in populations from northeastern Mexico.
• Populations from Texas, Oklahoma, and other Mexican regions exhibited monomorphic, multiple-band phenotypes.
• Analysis indicated that two genetic loci control hemoglobin variation in Peromyscus pectoralis.

Conclusions:

• Hemoglobin polymorphism in the encinal mouse is controlled by two loci.
• Geographic populations show varying degrees of hemoglobin diversity.