Cratogeomys merriami (Thomas, 1893)

Nomenclature and Taxonomic Classification

Merriam's pocket gopher, with the scientific name Cratogeomys merriami, is a rodent species belonging to the family Geomyidae.

Distribution

This species is endemic to Mexico, occurring in the regions of the Valley of Mexico and the Valley of Toluca at elevations ranging from 1800 meters to 4000 meters.

Habitat

Its preferred habitats are Zacatonal grassland, temperate pine-oak woodlands, farmland, and rangeland.

Karyotype

The karyotype of Merriam's pocket gopher has 2n = 36 and FN = 68.

Previous Taxonomic Classification

Before 2005, the currently recognized separate species C. fulvescens and C. perotensis were classified within this species.

Species Split Justification

They were split from Cratogeomys merriami due to distinct molecular, chromosomal, and morphological differences.

Species Group Placement

All three species are members of the C. castanops species group.

Etymology

This species is named in honor of American mammalogist Clinton Hart Merriam.

Conservation Status

Even though its distribution is patchy, Cratogeomys merriami is not considered a threatened species.