Systematic revision and species diversification of the genus Episoriculus (Mammalia: Eulipotyphla: Soricidae), with descriptions of two new species

The taxonomy of the genus has remained unstable because earlier classifications relied mainly on morphology and geographically restricted materials. We conducted extensive field surveys across the region, sequenced two mitochondrial and six nuclear genes, and generated complete mitogenomes for representative operational taxonomic units (OTUs) to evaluate phylogenetic relationships.

We also measured five external and 19 craniodental characters to evaluate morphometric variation. The analyses identify two previously unrecognized species, E. gaoligongensis sp. nov. from the Gaoligong Mountains of Yunnan and Medog in southeastern Xizang, and E. damuensis sp. nov. endemic to Medog. Our integrative evidence further supports recognition of eight valid species within Episoriculus: E. caudatus, E. leucops, E. macrurus, E. sacratus, E. soluensis, E. umbrinus, E. gaoligongensis sp. nov., and E. damuensis sp. nov.