Genetic variation of the bornean fanged frog, Limnonectes kuhlii complex in western borneo (Amphibia: Anura: Dicroglossidae)

The fanged frog Limnonetces kuhlii is known to be cryptic as seen in the dynamic of species delineation among the complexes. Yet no historical demographic and genetic structure has been fully documented for this species. We investigate historical events, diversification and dispersal of the Bornean Limnonectes kuhlii Complex via Mitochondrial DNA of partial 16S rRNA. Haplotype graphical network, demographic history, neutrality test and population subdivision analysis were used to assess population genetic of the species. Two haplogroups were detected distinct within population and panmictic from East and West of Lupar gap (Batang Ai). The Lupar gap has become the geographical barrier that restricts gene flow from western and eastern populations. Ragged multimodal mismatch distribution, long terminal branches and high mutational site of network showing population in Sarawak and Sabah were rarely migrate and low gene flow. Surprisingly, most of L. kuhlii population showed population constriction and presence of two or more mixed subpopulations. It can be concluded that high levels of sequence divergence suggesting ancient DNA (lineage) and cryptic species hidden within the species. This study should be extended in future with more samples and validate their true species status with morphological data