The taxonomic status of Schelkovnikov's Pine Vole Microtus schelkovnikovi (Rodentia, Mammalia)

Abstract

A comparison of morphological and karyological traits as well as an analysis of ecological preferences and the distribution pattern support the opinion that Microtus schelkovnikovi does not belong to subgenus Terricola and is the sole member of its own taxonomic species group. Hyrcanicola subgen. nov. comprises a single species Microtus (Hyrcanicola) schelkovnikovi, an endemic and relict form, inhabiting the Hyrcanian broad-leaved forest zone of Azerbaijan and Iran.