Don't judge a lamprey by its teeth: Genetic analysis shows need to reconsider species classification, possibly influencing conservation decisions

Abstract

Lamprey are a lineage of boneless fish that is older than trees. Traditionally, lamprey species have been identified by morphology - that is, their visible features, such as teeth. However, this method can be unreliable because without bones, lampreys don’t have many distinguishing features, and most of these don’t develop until adulthood. Thus, significant conservation actions may be taken, or not taken, based on species designations that are … slippery.

Citation

Carim, Kellie; Larson, Doug. 2024. Don't judge a lamprey by its teeth: Genetic analysis shows need to reconsider species classification, possibly influencing conservation decisions. Science You Can Use (in 5 Minutes), January 2023. Fort Collins, CO: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Rocky Mountain Research Station. 2 p.