Researchers Propose New Species: African Golden Wolf
The golden jackals found in Africa, Europe the Middle East and Asia have long been considered the same species, thanks to their physical features and behavior.
Apparently, looks can be deceiving.
Extensive DNA analysis, backed up by previous studies, shows that the population consists of two species of genetically distinct lineage, one of which was previously unknown to scientists, according to a report published this week.
The slender, short-muzzled Eurasian golden jackal with reddish-brown fur that we’ve always known goes by Canis aureus. Even though they resemble Canis aureus, those found in Africa have more genetically in common with gray wolves, leading researchers to propose a new scientific name: the African golden wolf, or Canis anthus.
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cell.com