Lupulella
Lupulella
Lupulella is a genus of canids native to Africa, comprising two distinct extant species: the black-backed jackal and the side-striped jackal. Previously classified under the genus Canis, these species were reclassified into the distinct genus Lupulella in 2017 based on genetic evidence that highlighted their unique evolutionary lineage separate from other canids.
Key Facts
- ›The genus Lupulella is exclusively found in Africa.
- ›It contains two living species: the black-backed jackal and the side-striped jackal.
- ›These species were formerly classified within the genus Canis.
- ›Genetic studies in 2017 led to their recognition as a separate genus, Lupulella.
- ›The reclassification was formally adopted by the American Society of Mammalogists.
African Jackals
Africa
About Lupulella
The genus Lupulella represents a distinct group of canids native to the continent of Africa. This genus currently comprises two recognized extant species: the black-backed jackal (Lupulella mesomelas) and the side-striped jackal (Lupulella adusta).
Taxonomy and Classification
Historically, both the black-backed and side-striped jackals were classified under the widely recognized genus Canis. However, advancements in genomic research have provided crucial insights into their evolutionary relationships. A significant taxonomic review in 2017 recommended that these two species be recognized as belonging to a separate genus, Lupulella. This recommendation was subsequently adopted by the American Society of Mammalogists. Further support for this distinct classification came in 2019 from a workshop hosted by the IUCN/SSC Canid Specialist Group, which, based on DNA evidence showing the two species forming a monophyletic lineage outside the Canis/Cuon/Lycaon clade, recommended their placement in the genus Lupulella (Hilzheimer, 1906), with the scientific names Lupulella adusta and Lupulella mesomelas.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
What species are included in the genus Lupulella?
The genus Lupulella includes two extant species: the black-backed jackal (Lupulella mesomelas) and the side-striped jackal (Lupulella adusta).
Where are Lupulella canids found?
All species within the genus Lupulella are found in Africa. They are the only canid genus native to the continent.
Why were these jackals moved to a new genus?
DNA evidence revealed that the black-backed and side-striped jackals form a distinct evolutionary lineage that is separate from the Canis/Cuon/Lycaon clade. This led to their reclassification into the genus Lupulella.
When was the genus Lupulella established?
The genus Lupulella was recommended in a taxonomic review in 2017, and the American Society of Mammalogists formally recognized it. A workshop in 2019 further supported their placement in this distinct genus.