Restriction-site associated DNA sequences of Eurycea salamanders

The objective of this study was to delimit species and infer evolutionary history in a group of salamanders endemic to groundwater environments of the Edwards-Trinity aquifer system in west-central Texas using genome-wide DNA sequence data. The species in this group have small ranges and narrow habitat requirements. Aquifers of the Edwards-Trinity system are under pressure from groundwater development and urbanization, which can result in decreased water quality and reduced springflow. As a result of these pressures, many of the endemic Texas Eurycea are listed as Threatened or Endangered under the Endangered Species Act, and several additional species are currently under consideration for listing. Thus, accurate species delimitation is critical for effective conservation and management of both salamanders and groundwater.